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Cruise News - September 25, 2023
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Azamara Unveils 2026 World Cruise
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Azamara unveiled its 2026 World Cruise this week, a majestic journey setting sail from Miami, Florida on January 6, 2026. This grand expedition, concluding in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, is a golden ticket to explore over 35 countries and experience the enchanting allure of the Seven Wonders of the World. Azamara Onward's world cruise is designed to grant guests an extended exploration with 55 late nights and overnights, 60 Extended Destination Days, 3 exclusive World Cruise events and 10 AzAmazing events, allowing for a deeper connection with each mesmerizing wonder and the diverse tapestry of cultures that surround them.
 "We are thrilled to welcome our world cruisers on this journey of a lifetime," said Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. "Our 2026 World Cruise offers our guests the unique opportunity to uncover a new perspective on a wide variety of cultures and visit all seven wonders of the world, while enjoying some of the most exclusive and specially curated events throughout this exciting itinerary."
Highlighted shore excursions and overnight experiences introducing guests to the Seven Wonders include:
• Chichen Itza: Wander through ancient realms, where the whispers of the great pyramid of Kulkulcan and the preserved Mayan ballpark intertwine with the enchanting tales of the Temple of Venus and the Temple of Warriors, all brought to life with the magic of virtual- and augmented-reality technology.
• Christ the Redeemer: Experience the iconic Christ the Redeemer within a grand multi-day exploration, unveiling Rio's architectural gems, the panoramic splendors of Sugar Loaf Mountain, the captivating beauty of Iguazu Falls, and the ancient mysteries of Easter Island's statues. Each moment is immersed in luxury and flavored with the diverse and spirited essence of these legendary locales, weaving a tapestry of unforgettable, enriching experiences.
• Taj Mahal: Discover the timeless Taj Mahal, a symbol of love, bathed in the changing hues of dawn. This multi-day journey unveils the majestic Agra Fort and enchanting "Baby Taj," immersing you in vibrant cultures, diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, and the luxury of The Oberoi hotels.
• Machu Picchu: Explore the enigmatic beauty of Machu Picchu and the ancient wonders of Cusco, including the colossal Sacsayhuaman Fortress, a symbol of Inca ingenuity. Enjoy the luxury of Palacio del Inca and exquisite Peruvian cuisine as you traverse breathtaking landscapes and discover revered sites like Qoricancha and the majestic Cathedral, rich with history and culture.
• Colosseum: Experience the iconic Colosseum through the eyes of a gladiator with exclusive access, surrounded by ancient bleachers, where echoes of the past resonate. Explore this architectural marvel and the remnants of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, steeped in history, before indulging in a delightful Italian lunch, completing this immersive journey into Rome's illustrious past.
• The Great Wall of China: Travelers will have the chance to fly to Beijing for three nights to explore the Forbidden City with an expert guide and visit the Great Wall to take in one of the world's greatest wonders of architectural history. Guests can also ride the cable car to explore the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace before heading to Hong Kong for three nights.
• Petra: Guests can journey to the desert city of Petra in Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once a mysterious city isolated in a forbidden valley, to hike through the 'Siq' and discover the Rose Red City. Travelers will have the unique opportunity to view and learn more about the Treasury, the Greek Theatre, ancient Royal Tombs, Colonnaded Street, and the Temple of Qasr Al-Bint.
World Cruisers will have access to a destination-concierge, and pre-cruise dedicated call center specialists as they plan their journey on Azamara. In addition to checking off countless bucket list travel destinations and experiences, Azamara's 2026 World Cruise offers over $22,000* in exclusive amenities, including 13 exclusive world voyage special events, $3,000 in onboard credit, an additional $4,000 onboard credit for shore excursions, airfare credit*, pre- and post-cruise transfers, a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, a premium beverage package upgrade, weekly laundry service, WiFi service and more. World cruisers will also enjoy the amenities that are always included with Always Azamara: five dining options, beverages including alcohol 24/7, tips and gratuities, cultural events, and unlimited self-service laundry
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Four Seasons Yachts Redefines Luxury at Sea
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Four Seasons, together with luxury yachting company Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd. and venerated Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, continues to build momentum towards the inaugural journey of Four Seasons Yachts. The venture brings together an unparalleled group of partners: Nadim Ashi and Philip Levine, entrepreneurs and bold visionaries of this distinctive yacht experience, paired with Four Seasons luxury hospitality leadership.
"Four Seasons Yachts represents a key pillar of our future growth and strategic vision, as we look to capitalize on new opportunities and build brand differentiation through immersive luxury experiences," says Alejandro Reynal, President and CEO, Four Seasons. "The inaugural Yacht is a manifestation of this vision, offering a world-class Four Seasons experience, at sea and on land, marked by the genuine, personalized service that our guests know and love."
 Setting sail in late 2025, the vessel will be the first in the Four Seasons Yachts fleet. With a signed contract for the construction of the second Four Seasons vessel with Fincantieri to be delivered in late November 2026, this second vessel's order is worth more than EUR 400 million.
Larry Pimentel, President and CEO, Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd., Joint Owner and Operator, Four Seasons Yachts, and responsible for leading the enterprise, says, "When we launched Four Seasons Yachts in Monaco this time last year, we were humbled by the tremendous response and excitement about the offering, which sparked unprecedented interest in this stunning project."
Ultra-Luxe Design Innovations
The first Four Seasons Yacht features 95 suites with remarkable custom design, focused on removing barriers between guests, the sea, and their surroundings. To enjoy outdoor yachting moments, each suite features extensive terrace decks ranging from 100 square feet (9.3 square metres) for the deluxe suite, to nearly 5,000 square feet (457 square metres) for the Funnel Suite, which will be the Yacht's most expansive accommodation. With an all-suite, residential style product, the Yacht will set a new standard for privacy and guest-centric layout. From the vessel's waterline to the top deck, the unequalled sea-to-sky design features will offer standout and unparalleled Four Seasons experiences.
The Funnel Suite will be an astonishing four levels, offering more than 9,500 square feet (898 square metres) of combined indoor/outdoor living space, including a private wading pool and dedicated private spa area, creating a sea-view home away from home.
This immense suite can be further expanded with vertical and horizontal connectivity, allowing guests to have one of the largest continuously connected living spaces at sea. The Funnel Suite's iconic floor-to-ceiling wraparound curved glass window modules, made up of the largest contiguous piece of glass at sea, will offer stunning 280-degree panoramic views. With the glass of the Funnel Suite costing a total of USD 4.5 million, this one-of-a-kind engineering innovation is nothing short of remarkable, from its steel web frame support structure to its double glass thermal performance.
Another design first is the Yacht's bespoke onboard transverse marina, allowing guests easy access to a world of water sports adventure filled with state-of-the-art water toys in ports that are traditionally exclusive to privately-owned yachts. Pushing the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship, the cutting-edge marina design features expansive openings across the vessel from port to starboard, offering large platforms and tiered lounging decks on both sides to maximize light and sea views while fostering visual and physical links - creating yacht moments with the magnificence of the sea.
Outdoors, water sports enthusiasts will enjoy private and exclusive sailing, snorkelling and wind surfing. Inside, an elegant lounge area outfitted with a stylish bar and dedicated al fresco seating areas reveals panoramic ocean views. Rentable custom crafted sea limousines designed for transfers and coastal grand touring along with a pair of beach landers are also part of the ship's signature marina experience, accessible in most anchor ports. What's more, a dedicated marina team ensures that guests receive the impeccable service they have come to expect from Four Seasons.
For those wanting to enjoy the sun from the pool deck, the canoe-aft deck will boast a 20-metre (66 foot) pool, one of the largest at sea. It will serve as the bustling centre of the vessel and a gathering place for guests who share an affinity for the refined, leisurely pace of yachting. The salt-water pool is designed so that it can be quickly emptied, the floor raised and converted into a multi-function area for performances, fashion shows, and weddings to name a few programming options. This hydraulic lift design borrows inspiration from the classic Christina O yacht, which also had many famous-first features.
Unveiling Four Seasons Yachts to Global Travellers
Driven by the need to manage extraordinary demand with scarcity of inaugural inventory, priority access to reserve Yacht voyages is being distributed by invitation-only, beginning with loyal Four Seasons guests and valued travel partners. Equally as important, this distribution approach acknowledges and cares for Four Seasons patrons and their qualified luxury travel advisors in a manner deserving of their loyalty and commitment to the brand.
A dedicated private client service division has been created with an elite team of personal yacht consultants, committed to delivering on the personalized service and genuine heart that Four Seasons is known for. With high-touch and high-tech tools, they will manage by-appointment demand starting with priority access options for the inaugural season. For those luxury travel enthusiasts who are interested in Four Seasons Yachts, a waitlist will also be available online at www.fourseasonsyachts.com.
Exploring the Yacht Playgrounds of the Caribbean and Mediterranean
The 2025/26 inaugural season ushers in the start of extraordinary yachting itineraries offered throughout winter and spring in the Caribbean. The Yacht will then return to the Mediterranean to cruise iconic yachting locales, from the French and Italian Rivieras to the Adriatic coastline and Greek Isles. The average journey will be seven days, affording back-to-back voyages of 21 days with distinct daily deployments. The first year's planning represents 33 countries, 137 unique destinations, and 76 late night evenings and/or overnights. Unique Four Seasons pre-and-post hotel and overland programs are in development and will be unveiled soon.
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Oceania Cruises Announces Seven New 2025 Summer Sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii
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Oceania Cruises has announced seven new exotic summer sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii on board the 670-guest boutique hotel-style Regatta in 2025, which will open for reservations on October 4, 2023. Sailing with Oceania Cruises is the ultimate way to visit these stunning destinations that offer a utopia of cultural encounters, memorable adventures and pristine natural surroundings.
The new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the ideal months of August, September and October when the regions boast abundant sunshine, pleasant, balmy temperatures and lower humidity. Itineraries span the gorgeous blue lagoon of Bora Bora, the black sand beaches of Tahiti, the colorful coral reefs of Raiatea, the soaring mountains in the verdant jungles of Nuku Hiva and more. Four of the seven new sailings link French Polynesia with the captivating craters, dramatic canyons and lush waterfalls of the Hawaiian archipelago. With Oceania Cruises, you can experience the paradise of these islands firsthand on immersive itineraries, discovering the traditions of native Polynesian culture, tasting the fresh flavors of the local cuisine and exploring the local communities and surrounding natural wonders.
 "At Oceania Cruises, we offer a captivating array of sailings in French Polynesia and Hawaii, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travelers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to our small, luxurious ships," commented Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "One of the highlights of these parts of the world is undoubtedly the food. Whether you're exploring Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva or Nawiliwili and Hilo, the flavors of these islands are meant to be savored and enjoyed just as much as the spectacular scenery."
Sailing from Tahiti or Honolulu, the seven new voyages range from 10 to 18 days, allowing plenty of time for exploration, adventure and relaxation in these stunning regions of the world. While Tahiti may feel worlds away, the gateway of Papeete is readily accessible by flight from New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London and Sydney with convenient 8-hour non-stop flights from Los Angeles and 5-hour non-stop flights out of Auckland. Similarly, Honolulu is just a 6-hour direct flight away from Los Angeles and an 8 ½-hour direct flight from Auckland. In addition to the seven new sailings aboard Regatta in 2025, there are dozens of other destination-rich itineraries to choose from in the South Pacific, as well as Australia and New Zealand, in 2024 and 2025 with Oceania Cruises.
NEW SUMMER SAILINGS IN 2025
Polynesian Dreams: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs August 1 and September 15, 2025, which offers the itinerary in reverse.
Tahitian Legends: 10 days from Papeete to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora and Raiatea. Departs August 16 and 26, and September 5, 2025.
Divine Pacific Oases: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs September 30, 2025.
Song of Polynesia: 18 days from Papeete to Los Angeles aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Los Angeles. Departs October 15, 2025.
REGATTA SHIPBOARD HIGHLIGHTS
Carrying just 670 guests, Regatta provides a boutique experience for travelers to explore the region, with itineraries designed to offer a unique flavor of the South Pacific. Guests will experience the ultimate in small ship luxury, with just 340 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas. Lose yourself in one of the hundreds of books in the top-of-ship library, relax and rejuvenate in the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center or socialize with old and new friends in one of the eight lounges and bars on board. After dinner in one of the four gourmet, open-seating restaurants, take in a show or spend the evening in the casino.
EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH FRENCH POLYNESIA & HAWAII
One of the best ways to delve into the local island culture is through food, and both French Polynesia and Hawaii serve up some mouth-watering specialties, exotic dishes and delicious delicacies.
Try poisson cru: French Polynesia's version of ceviche, this dish features local raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often with vegetables. You'll have plenty of chances to try it on a variety of excursions, and you'll regularly see it on local menus.
The mahi mahi burger and a mai tai at Bloody Mary's in Bora Bora are not to be missed. The thatched-roof restaurant with sand floors has served well-known faces including Jimmy Buffet, Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones and movie star couple Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell – it's an experience to remember.
Don't pass on the breadfruit: Called uru in Tahitian, this strangely versatile starch will appear on the table prepared in more ways than you can keep track of and is quintessentially French Polynesian. A staple form on Nuku Hiva involves roasting it over hot coals and then mashing it with coconut milk to create a dish called kaka.
You can't visit Hawaii without trying traditional poke, a raw fish bowl favored for its simplicity and freshness. Though all sorts of variations have become popular the world over, try ahi poke or tako poke – octopus – in its birthplace for a true taste of the classic dish.
A must-have at luaus, kalua pork is another Hawaiian favorite you'll find across the islands. The traditional method of slow roasting the pork in an imu, or underground pit, and seasoning it with local sea salt results in a succulent, smoky meat typically paired with rice and sauteed cabbage or coleslaw.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, one of the most photogenic islands, is dominated by two peaks – Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia – both more than 2,000 feet high. Covered in emerald greenery, they create a dramatic backdrop for Bora Bora's shimmering lagoon, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise water. Under the sea, the reef encircling the island is a haven for a rainbow of exotic fish and turtles. Explore Bora Bora's dazzling lagoon, go on a guided off-road adventure across the island or see sharks and stingrays from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat.
Papeete, Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia, with clear blue waters, swaying palm trees, balmy weather and rich island culture. Enjoy a wide variety of restaurants and the best shopping in the region – be sure to look out for exquisite hand-carved wooden figurines and bowls as well as colorful patchwork textiles called tifaifai, appliqued quilts that are often handed down for generations. Feeling energetic? Then be sure to hike inland a couple of miles to Fautaua Waterfall, Tahiti's highest at an incredible 443 feet. Learn about the iridescence and luster of pearls at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum or take a walking tour of the colorful and creative street art and murals painted by talented international artists.
Hilo, Hawaii, is on the east coast of the Big Island and is renowned for its lush greenery. See how the 2018 reawakening of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, has changed the landscape at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thrill seekers can choose from excursions such as a helicopter ride to Kilauea Volcano or zip-lining through a river gorge. Or for those who want to take it easier, a visit to Richardson Ocean Park, a black sand beach carved into the rocky shoreline, or a stroll through farmers markets with aisles of colorful fruits, vegetables and flowers, would be perfect.
Kailua-Kona on Hawaii has a laid-back vibe and myriad things to do: roam a national park, swim or snorkel in the sea, or play a round of golf at one of three courses overlooking the ocean. Visit Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation to learn about different beans and roasts and sample some of the aromatic fresh brews. Experience Magic Sands Beach, a beautiful stretch of turquoise water and white sand – when it's there. It's named Magic Sands Beach because every so often a big storm will take all the sand out to sea, exposing rock until the sandy beach is returned by the sea over time.
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Villa Vie Residences Introduces New Approach to World Cruises
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Villa Vie Residences, an innovative new world cruise brand, today announced details on its visionary new concept. Beginning in May of 2024, Villa Vie will circumnavigate the world every 3.5 years, visiting more than 420 ports in 147 countries across all seven continents. Aspiring global travelers can embark on the voyage of a lifetime by purchasing a cabin to own onboard or joining the VVRI Voyagers Program, where they can curate their own unique journey and combine up to 16 world cruise segments.
 "Villa Vie Residences is not just a cruise; it's a lifestyle reimagined," said Mikael Petterson, the company's chief executive officer and a seasoned cruise industry executive. "With the launch of our new brand, we are empowering travelers to make the world their home, all while enjoying unmatched luxury and flexibility."
From the enchanting fjords of Northern Europe and the icy fjords of Greenland to the vibrant Caribbean, the soul of South America and the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, Villa Vie Residences' promises a new chapter in the adventure of a lifetime. With diverse regions spanning the globe, from the majestic landscapes of Africa to the pristine beaches of the South Pacific and the bustling cities of Asia, Villa Vie Residences offers a truly immersive and enriching experience that unveils the world's wonders at every turn of the journey.
With a focus on providing unparalleled experiences, Villa Vie Residences is revolutionizing the world cruise concept with two innovative options:
Own a Cabin at Sea
• Through its residential ownership program, Villa Vie lets travelers embrace life as a global resident by owning their very own cabin at sea. Cabins are fully equipped and elegantly designed floating havens for those seeking to call the world's most breathtaking destinations home:
• Prices start at $99,999
• Family and friends can visit at no cost ($33 daily port taxes and gratuities apply)
• Ability to rent out cabin when unable to be onboard
Craft Your Own Ultimate World Cruise
• Through its unique Voyagers Program, Villa Vie is answering the call for flexibility from the world's most discerning travelers, allowing them to curate their own journey and purchase segments of the continuous world cruise program that range from 35 to 120 days:
• Prices start at $89/day per person
Travelers have the ability to choose from 16 various segments of the meticulously crafted 1,301-day itinerary
A new standard of luxury will be featured onboard for Villa Vie Residences' owners and guests, offering all-inclusive living that extends to every facet of the experience. Residents can enjoy everything from a cutting-edge business center complete with private offices and an inviting library, to a culinary arts center with interactive cooking classes and self-service options. Additional amenities will include multiple dining venues, an onboard Pet Spa & Resort, a golf-around-the-world program, modern fitness center, vibrant live entertainment and sustainable enrichment programs, among others. Residents will enjoy the comforts of home with complimentary services including weekly professional housekeeping, bi-weekly laundry service and 24/7 medical support.
Villa Vie Residences is slated to begin its inaugural 1,301-day journey around the world in May of 2024. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.
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Cunard Announces Three-year Partnership with British Film Institute for Queen Anne
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Cunard has teamed up with the British Film Institute (BFI) for an exclusive new partnership that will make waves with film lovers ahead of the launch of the line's newest ship, Queen Anne.
The cruise line has announced a three-year partnership with the UK's lead organization for film, TV, and the moving image. The collaboration will see a curated program of short films and beloved blockbusters shown exclusively on the outdoor screen in The Pavilion aboard Queen Anne.
 The Pavilion is an idyllic open-air oasis on the top deck of Cunard's newest ship, and the BFI will be showing 10 films every month on the cinematic LED screen in this romantic outdoor space. These specially selected films will also be shown in guests' staterooms.
As a multi-purpose space, The Pavilion boasts a specially designed glass dome roof that retracts in warmer climates. Inspired by beautiful glasshouses, it is the ideal spot for getting lost in a book or enjoying a dip in the pool by day and for meeting new friends over a glass of wine in the evening.
The space has been designed by David Collins Studio, with its sophisticated aesthetic likened to a ship sailing through serene waters as guests breeze from one moment to the next. The gentle arc of the glass dome encompasses all the experiences within the space, and opens to let the outside in.
Acclaimed architect Martin Francis – who supported with engineering the iconic Louvre Pyramid in Paris – led a redesigning of the glass dome, which will now feature a refined arched steel frame to maximize height and light in the space as it stretches up and aft to create the new Wellness Studio.
Queen Anne's wider design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer guests several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before.
BFI Partnership
In addition to the collaboration with The Pavilion on Queen Anne, Cunard will be a main sponsor of the 67th BFI London Film Festival, in partnership with American Express, which runs at venues across London, as well as in nine UK partner cinemas, from October 4-15, 2023, as well as in 2024 and 2025.
On October 11, the Cunard Gala will support the European premiere of The Holdovers at the BFI London Film Festival – in association with Universal Pictures and Focus Features – at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall. The Holdovers is a new American comedy-drama from acclaimed director Alexander Payne.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with the British Film Institute, with our shared dedication to providing immersive experiences aligning perfectly. We're hugely proud of our long-standing affiliation with the silver screen, with some of Hollywood's biggest names having sailed in style with Cunard – from Charlie Chaplin to Meryl Streep. As the first cruise line to host an on board film premiere with the launch of The Greatest Showman on Queen Mary 2 in 2017, we are incredibly passionate about the power of timeless storytelling. We have dedicated spaces for film enthusiasts across the fleet, and our new ship Queen Anne will boast even more big screen experiences for guests. Together with the BFI, we'll strive to create unparalleled and unforgettable moments for film lovers."
Francesca Vinti, BFI Executive Director of Fundraising and Enterprise, added: "We are thrilled to be working alongside Cunard on this partnership and are incredibly thankful for their support of the BFI and the BFI London Film Festival. We are excited to be able to reach audiences in new inventive ways with amazing films and look forward to collaborating with Cunard over the next three years."
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
03.90 |
- 7.58% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
90.97 |
- 5.16% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
15.18/FONT> |
- 11.33% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What year did Carnival Cruise Lines begin operations and what was the name of their first cruise ship? Bonus: what was the original name of this ship and which line did she sail for?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Just outside of the Britannia Restaurant on Cunard's Queen Mary 2 are a series of metallic, art deco-influenced frescoes celebrating the historical and cultural icons of the continents. In addition to the Statue of Liberty and the U.S. Capitol on the "North America" mural there is a very tiny and surprising representative of the continent? Can you name him/her?
Answer - Homer Simpson is on the mural on the QM2 !
courtesy of Robert Alderman
Cruise News - September 18, 2023
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Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Floats for the First Time
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It was a big weekend for the world’s biggest weekend: Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas is now one step closer to its debut in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, in July 2024. The game-changing Oasis Class ship floated for the first time over the weekend, marking a major milestone and the next phase of construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
 Known as the float out, the key moment in the construction of Utopia took 17 months to reach. The process itself took nearly 15 hours, beginning with filling the new ship’s dry dock with more than 46 million gallons of water overnight. Utopia was then moved into an outfitting dock, where it will be completed in summer 2024. Since construction on the next Oasis Class ship started in April 2022, the new vacation has taken shape with more than 74 blocks of steel that have been lifted and assembled into place. Utopia will now begin to come to life as its highly anticipated features are installed, from the longest dry slide at sea – the 295-foot-long Ultimate Abyss – to a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience.
Utopia will introduce unmatched weekend energy across a combination of more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, thrills, ways to chill and more. Friends and families celebrating any occasion can create their ultimate weekend and memories with their pick and mix of new signature adventures and reimagined experiences, like newly designed resort-style pools, a new Caribbean tiki bar – the Pesky Parrot – a reimagined Izumi restaurant, now in Central Park, with a new convenient pick-up window for fresh sushi and Japanese street food, and al fresco dining; and showstopping nightlife and entertainment.
The ultimate 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaway will be the first in the revolutionary Oasis Class to offer short escapes when it debuts in July 2024. Every vacation will feature visits to Nassau, The Bahamas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island – that will feature its first adults-only slice of paradise, Hideaway Beach, starting in January 2024.
Utopia will also make waves when it debuts in July 2024 as the first Oasis Class ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the cleanest-burning marine fuel to date. As the cruise line’s second LNG-powered ship – following Icon of the Seas – Utopia will advance Royal Caribbean’s decades-long commitment to the environment by combining LNG technology with a lineup of the brand’s already-established environmentally friendly initiatives and features, from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connection.
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Cunard Announces New 2025 Program for Queen Anne, Queen Mary 2, and Queen Victoria
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Cunard has pioneered ocean travel for more than 180 years and now the luxury cruise line is offering travelers the chance to set sail on more unforgettable holidays with the release of 180 new voyages for 2025.
"With 180 fantastic itineraries to choose from, there really is a Cunard voyage for everyone."
 The compelling program features sailings between April 2025 and January 2026 and includes an eclectic mix of exciting itineraries spanning 91 destinations, across 24 countries globally, on board Queen Mary 2, Queen Anne, and Queen Victoria.
Queen Anne will primarily be sailing to the Western Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords and Western Europe, while Queen Mary 2 will continue her iconic Transatlantic Crossings and Queen Victoria will be based in the Mediterranean. Each Queen's program boasts at least one maiden call; however, Queen Anne will make no fewer than 19 maiden calls – including Bilbao, Ibiza, Skjolden, Messina and Santorini.
Queen Anne
Guests will discover their dream destination with Queen Anne in 2025. As the newest addition to the Cunard fleet, her design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer travelers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before.
For her 2025 program, Queen Anne will be sailing out of Southampton, England, providing a range of destinations and itinerary lengths varying from two to 19 nights, which will include 19 maiden calls. From a 12-night voyage taking in the mystical landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords in June to a 16-night Mediterranean sailing around France, Spain, and Italy in July – taking in several of Europe's most enchanting ancient cities – Cunard's newest Queen will be embarking on a host of captivating voyages.
Queen Mary 2
From the UNESCO-inscribed architecture of Old Quebec to the medieval streets of Bruges, guests will discover holidays on both sides of the Atlantic on Cunard's flagship and the world's only true ocean liner in 2025.
Whether it's the white sands and warm shallows of the Caribbean in December or indulging in Cunard signatures during uninterrupted sea days on a Transatlantic Crossing, a voyage on Queen Mary 2 is always an extraordinary experience.
Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria will be based in the Mediterranean across the program from May to October 2025, offering a range of 7, 14 and 21-night itineraries out of Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Trieste.
One of the many dazzling highlights of Queen Victoria's 2025 program is her two-week Istanbul and Greek Islands sailing in May. This voyage from Civitavecchia takes in some of the Eastern Mediterranean's greatest treasures, from exploring Turkish seas to serene Greek islands, each port makes for an adventure to remember.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: "We are incredibly excited to be launching our new 2025 program and with 180 fantastic itineraries to choose from, there really is a Cunard voyage for everyone. Whether it's an iconic Transatlantic crossing, a Scandinavian adventure, or Christmas in the Caribbean, our fleet of Queens provide the perfect opportunity to explore the world in style.
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Princess Announces New 2025 Cruises and Cruisetours from Japan
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In response to increasing demand for cruises in Japan – one of the hottest trends in travel - Princess Cruises has released its 2025 Japan cruise season. The newly announced 2025 Japan cruise season offers travelers the wonders of this island nation where ancient traditions and modernity co-exist in harmony.
 From ancient temples and storied castles to bustling markets and breathtaking gardens, cruisers experience the best of Japan with Princess in 2025 on 35 cruises ranging in length from seven- to 22-day. The March through August season features Japan-built Diamond Princess sailing from Tokyo (Yokohama) to 36 destinations in 3 countries with the #1 North American Cruise Line in Japan. The season is now on sale.
"Japan is best experienced on a cruise, sailing around this scenic island nation taking in festivals, flowers, legendary sites and landscapes," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "Our upcoming 2025 season features itineraries and offerings crafted with area tourism boards to showcase the best of the local art, cuisine, music and popular culture."
2025 Itinerary Highlights:
• 10-day and NEW 11-day Spring Flowers cruises in March and April, cruising to all four main islands and following the predicted blooming season as it moves from south to north.
• 9-day Southern Islands itineraries with two calls to the Okinawan islands and two calls to Taiwan, including a return to Hualien.
• 9-day and 10-day Sea of Japan voyages that feature ports along the historic Kitamaebune trading route.
• 10-day Hokkaido voyages that visit Otaru (for Sapporo), Hakodate, and Kushiro.
• 10-day Japan Explorer voyages that call to some of the country's most iconic destinations like Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), Osaka or Kobe (for Kyoto), Hiroshima, and more.
• Scenic cruising of the Kanmon Straits, the stretch of water separating Honshu and Kyushu.
Traditional Japanese summer festivals take place throughout the country in the summer, especially in August. Guests sailing to Japan with Princess in 2025 will have the chance to enjoy four of these unique festivals:
• Aomori Nebuta Festival (August 2 and 7)
• Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival (August 12)
• Tokushima Awa Dance Festival (August 13)
• Kumano Fireworks Festival (August 17)
More Ashore:
With late-night and overnight stays, guests can spend more time in port and experience the culture and lifestyle.
Four late-night More Ashore ports including Aomori (for Nebuta Festival), Kochi (for Yosakoi Festival), Shimizu (for Mt. Fiji), and Tokushima (for Awa Odori Festival).
Highlights of Japan Cruisetour:
With options to combine a cruise and land tour for a deeper look at Kyoto and Tokyo, guests tour Kyoto's intricate gardens, sightsee at Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. They also have more time to explore bustling Tokyo and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Fuji with stunning views from Togendai and Lake Ashi.
Built in Japan, 2,670-guest Diamond Princess offers a unique experience tailored to the region. Guests enjoy authentic cuisine at Kai Sushi, sip Japanese-inspired cocktails created by mixologist Rob Floyd, soak in the traditional Izumi bath and enjoy folkloric shows, regional entertainment and Japanese holiday celebrations.
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Royal Caribbean Group Drives Forward Alternative Fuel Use with The Successful Completion of Biofuel Testing
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This week, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) laid important groundwork for the industry's alternative fuel ambitions by completing over 12 consecutive weeks of biofuel testing in Europe. The company's steadfast pursuit to find lower-carbon energy solutions is driven by its SEA the Future commitment to sustaining the planet, energizing communities, and accelerating innovation. By introducing methods that reduce emissions today, Royal Caribbean Group is ultimately advancing the decarbonization of its operations.
 "This is a pivotal moment for Royal Caribbean Group's alternative fuel journey," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "Following our successful trial of biofuels this summer, we are one step closer to bringing our vision for net-zero cruising to life. As we strive to protect and promote the vibrant oceans we sail, we are determined to accelerate innovation and improve how we deliver vacation experiences responsibly."
Today, in Barcelona, Royal Caribbean International's Symphony of the Seas became the first ship in the maritime industry to successfully test and use a biofuel blend in Barcelona to meet part of her fuel needs. The company confirmed onboard technical systems met operational standards, without quality or safety concerns, demonstrating the biofuel blend is a reliable "drop in" supply of lower emission energy that ships can use to set sail across Europe and beyond. The tests across Europe also provided valuable data to understand the availability and scalability of biofuel in the region.
"Royal Caribbean's success is a clear example of how commitment to innovation makes possible the development of solutions to decarbonise the maritime sector. In this case, it involves the cruise sector and focuses on biofuels, an area in which the Port of Barcelona is already working to become an energy hub, producing and supplying zero carbon fuels, such as green hydrogen and ammonia, and of other almost zero-carbon alternative fuels, such as methanol, biofuels or synthetic fuels. Innovation and collaboration between ports and shipping companies is key to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime transport," said the President of the Port of Barcelona, Lluís Salvadó.
The company began testing biofuels last year and expanded the trail this summer in Europe to two additional ships — Royal Caribbean International's Symphony of the Seas and Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Apex. The sustainable biofuel blends tested were produced by purifying renewable raw materials like waste oils and fats and combining them with fuel oil to create an alternative fuel that is cleaner and more sustainable. The biofuel blends tested are accredited by International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC), a globally recognized organization that ensures sustainability of biofuels and verifies reductions of related emissions.
With Symphony of the Seas departing from the Port of Barcelona and Celebrity Apex departing from the Port of Rotterdam, both ships accomplished multiple sailings using biofuel and contributed critical data on the fuel's capabilities. These results will help accelerate Royal Caribbean Group's plans to continue testing the use of different types of biofuels on upcoming European sailings this fall. The company is exploring strategic partnerships with suppliers and ports to ensure the availability of biofuel and infrastructures to advance the maritime energy transition.
Royal Caribbean Group's sustainability journey began over 30 years ago, and it has remained steadfast in its commitment to innovate, and advance, the solutions necessary for a more sustainable future.
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Cunard Announces Roll Out of SpaceX's Starlink Across Its Fleet
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Cunard has announced it is rolling out a new Wi-Fi service on board as it launches SpaceX's Starlink across its fleet.
 Starlink, the leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, will provide guests with greater capacity across Cunard ships, allowing for sharing photos and videos, streaming films, and enjoying other content on board with a more reliable Wi-Fi connection at even faster speeds.
The roll-out of Starlink aboard Cunard Queens began in June 2023, with the service due to be available in both public spaces and staterooms on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth by the end of 2023.
Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne, will launch with the service in May 2024.
Cunard President Katie McAlister said: "Sharing unforgettable moments with friends and family back at home is an important part of any holiday. Whether it's uploading a picture of a sunset as you sail away from a newly discovered destination or catching up with the news, live events, or content from home, Starlink will make it even easier for our guests and colleagues to stay connected."
Starlink vice president of commercial sales Jonathan Hofeller said: "High-speed internet is critical to our modern lifestyle both at home and when travelling. We're excited that Cunard guests and crew will benefit from an improved Wi-Fi service on board wherever they are in the world."
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Royal Caribbean Reveals Hideaway Beach, the First Adults-only Escape on Perfect Day at Cococay
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Dialing up the perfect at the one-of-a-kind Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, Royal Caribbean International reveals the first look at the private island's first adults-only escape – Hideaway Beach. The beachfront paradise, set to open in January 2024 with the debut of the highly anticipated Icon of the Seas, is an all-day experience complete with a private beach and pools, new dedicated spots for drinks and bites, exclusive cabanas, live music and more. Vacationers can be the first to book their adults-only experience beginning today at www.RoyalCaribbean.com/Hideaway-Beach.
 Hideaway Beach adds to what continues to be an unmatched combination of ways to do just that."
Tucked away on the northwest beach of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Hideaway Beach packs the best of a tropical getaway. For an entry charge, vacationers age 18 and older can celebrate, cool off and kick back across a private beach, two pools, 20 cabanas, seven open-air bars and spots to grab a bite, and more:
Adulting Beachside or Poolside
• Hideaway Beach – From end to end is over an acre of The Bahamas' white sand beaches and turquoise waters exclusive to Hideaway Beach guests. Vacationers can enjoy the beachfront views and breeze at any one of the resort-style loungers and umbrellas along the shore or on the in-water hammocks and swings while playing beach games and listening to the beats of the live DJ by the pool.
• Hideaway Pool – Partygoers can turn up the volume on the celebration with all-day tunes from the DJ and the lively swim-up bar at the center of the action. With in-water seating and loungers, and poolside loungers throughout the heated infinity-edge pool, every spot is also the best seat in the house to take in the picture-perfect views.
• Hideaway Cabanas – Just steps away from the party, vacationers can level up their day in paradise at 10 chic poolside cabanas that have a range of amenities like cabana attendant service at the push of a call button, a mini-fridge, floating beach mats and charging outlets.
• The Hideout – This nook at one end of Hideaway Beach is just close enough to the buzz but carves out an exclusive, elevated experience. In one of 10 Hideout Cabanas, those looking for a more VIP, chill vibe can kick back at a heated infinity-edge plunge pool – exclusive to The Hideout guests – and enjoy the convenience of perks like cabana attendant service, in-water loungers, an outdoor shower and resort-style seating.
Laidback Bites and Drinks
• On the Rocks – The area's new and unofficial lookout, this al fresco bar along the rocky shore serves up a vibrant scene of live musicians, TVs to watch live sports, games like pool and shuffleboard, and memorable ocean views along with refreshing drinks like frozen margaritas and mai tais.
• Hideaway Bar – The swim-up bar at Hideaway Pool is the place to be and be seen, and with two levels, vacationers can take their drinks poolside or without leaving the water to maximize every minute of their island time.
• Slice of Paradise – This all-new rustic pizza haven with a bar and complimentary food includes fresh-from-the-oven favorites, island twists like a Bahamian guava barbecue chicken option and more.
• Snack Shack – A staple on Perfect Day at CocoCay, this new location offers the popular menu's complimentary chicken sandwiches, burgers, fried mozzarella sticks, fresh salads and more, as well as shaded seating, and Adirondack chairs and tables on the sand.
• Beach Bars – Rounding out the experience are two full-service beach bars located on both sides of the new beachfront paradise, so a drink is never far away.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.04 |
- 2.84% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
95.92 |
- 1.78% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
17.12/FONT> |
+ 2.76% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Just outside of the Britannia Restaurant on Cunard's Queen Mary 2 are a series of metallic, art deco-influenced frescoes celebrating the historical and cultural icons of the continents. In addition to the Statue of Liberty and the U.S. Capitol on the "North America" mural there is a very tiny and surprising representative of the continent? Can you name him/her?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Name the two sister ships, built in the 1950's, that reportedly had deck space in their "dummy" funnels set aside for topless sunbathing.
Answer - The two 1950's sister ships that had facilities for nude sunbathing in their dummy funnels were the Argentina and Brasil. These two ships were built for Moore-McCormack Line's New York to Buenos Aires service and made their maiden voyages in late 1958.
courtesy of Brian O'Leary, Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Canada
Cruise News - September 11, 2023
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Ocean Explorer Runs Aground In Greenland
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The Ocean Explorer ran aground in Greenland on Monday. According to the Joint Arctic Command, the incident took place while the expedition vessel was cruising at the Alpefjord in the Northeast Greenland National Park.
 Currently operating under charter for Aurora Expeditions, the Ocean Explorer is part of SunStone Ships’ Infinity Class.
The Ocean Explorer got into trouble on Monday in Alpefjord, a dramatic and rugged stretch of Northeast Greenland National Park, and has not been able to free itself, according to a statement from Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command (JAC).
“This means that the tide - which came during the day, local time - did not give the desired help to sail on,” a JAC statement said. There were no reported injuries or risk of damage to the environment as a result of the grounding.
Approximagely 210 passengers and crew are reportedly onboard the 8,000-ton vessel, which entered service in mid-2021. There are no reports that human life or the environment are in danger, the Joint Arctic Command said, adding that the situation is being followed closely.
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Set Sail on a Spectacular Festive Voyage with Oceania Cruises
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Oceania Cruises invites travelers to experience a once-in-a-lifetime festive season voyage aboard seven of its small, luxurious ships. With over 40 sailings departing from Miami, Lima, Sydney, Singapore, Abu Dhabi or Dubai during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 holiday seasons, guests can immerse themselves in the cultural richness of myriad of enticing destinations.
This captivating collection of diverse itineraries offers a holiday getaway for every type of traveler, from exploring the pristine beaches of the Caribbean to discovering the vibrant energy of Latin America and from enjoying exotic islands across Polynesia and top destinations in Australia to setting off on enticing Arabian adventures.
 The holiday festivities begin the minute guests step aboard one of Oceania Cruises' intimate ships, which are festooned with enchanting seasonal decorations, glittering lights, festive garlands, elegantly dressed trees and showstopping gingerbread villages.
Joyful entertainment includes a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas on Christmas Eve, visits from Santa Claus and his helpers, charming carol singing, glistening evening shows on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, a beautiful display for the lighting of the Menorah, and special dedicated services on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Travelers can also ring in the New Year in style with ship-wide entertainment, including incredible countdown parties with a special Champagne toast to mark the midnight hour, and a decadent gala brunch on New Year's Day, featuring lavish desserts ranging from tarts and tortes to cheesecakes, macarons, and light and fluffy profiteroles.
Festive feasts on board the fleet of small, luxurious ships live up to the line's promise of The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, from traditional eggnog with breakfast on Christmas Day to an exquisite Hanukkah dining menu in The Grand Dining Room, delightful high teas and a multi-course traditional Christmas Day dinner flawlessly prepared by the finest chefs at sea.
"Cruising aboard a luxurious ship replete with celebratory menus, glistening decorations and festive entertainment is an extraordinary way to spend the holiday season," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Our collection of festive itineraries explores enticing locales the world over, creating memories to last a lifetime."
Headlining this 2023-2024 season is an exotic 12-day Caribbean Wanderlust adventure aboard the line's new ship, Vista, starting and finishing in Miami and calling on the tempting islands of Dominica, St. Lucia and beyond, departing December 18, 2023. However, now is also a great time to look ahead and plan for next year's holiday season, with a variety of captivating destinations to choose from.
simply MORE™ This Holiday Season
Oceania Cruises will continue offering travelers simply MORE during the holiday season. The new value promise means travelers seeking holidays at sea will receive the greatest value in luxury cruising, with virtually everything they desire included in their voyage fare: a hassle-free arrival and departure with free roundtrip airfare and free airport transfers; more unforgettable travel experiences with a generous shore excursion credit of up to $1,600 per stateroom to be spent on tours of their choice; and more occasions to celebrate the season with a comprehensive beverage package available during lunch and dinner at onboard restaurants featuring dozens of vintage Champagnes, premium wines and international beers.
Created to elevate the guest experience as well as create long-lasting memories in enticing destinations and provide access to exquisite indulgences, simply MORE makes the holidays even brighter aboard Oceania Cruises. Available on all new reservations on sailings departing October 1, 2023, or later.
2023-2024 Festive Season Voyage Highlights
Gems of the Leewards: 12 days from Miami to Miami aboard Insignia
Raise a glass to the holidays amid the inviting Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, a dazzling combination of wave-kissed beaches, yacht-strewn harbors, dramatic landscapes and a captivating dash of European sophistication. Departs December 17, 2023.
Caribbean Wanderlust: 12 Days from Miami to Miami aboard Vista.
Departing from Miami, revel in the sun-splashed pleasures of the Caribbean on this revitalizing holiday season escape to the carefree islands of the Eastern Caribbean to Dominica, St. Lucia and beyond. Departs December 18, 2023.
Legendary Latin America: 24 Days from Lima to Buenos Aires aboard Marina.
Celebrate the joyous spirit of Latin America, from the otherworldly deserts of Peru to the multifaceted sophistication of Uruguay and Argentina, on a journey punctuated by an extraordinary passage to Antarctica. Departs December 18, 2023.
Awe of Australia: 14 days from Sydney to Bali aboard Regatta
Revel in the myriad delights of Australia's eastern coast – think renowned vineyards, cutting-edge galleries, the iconic Gold Coast, the Great Barrier Reef and more – as you sail towards Indonesia and the abundance of beauty that is Bali. Departs December 21, 2023.
Sapphire Seas Holiday: 12 days from Miami to Miami aboard Sirena
Revel in the joyous Caribbean this holiday season in festive destinations such as the playful Dominican Republic, très-chic St. Barts, breathtaking Dominica, bountiful Barbados and luminescent Guadeloupe. Departs December 22, 2023.
Tropics of Capricorn: 24 Days from Singapore to Papeete aboard Nautica
For nearly a month, weave around the Tropic of Capricorn and discover a constellation of verdant islands and Australian gems. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, delight in rich Polynesian traditions or simply float peacefully in a crystalline lagoon. Departs December 28, 2023.
Sumptuous Arabia: 10 Days from Abu Dhabi to Mumbai aboard Riviera
Marvel at the desert cities of Oman and the UAE, where sleek architecture sits beside sumptuous palaces and mosques. Relish an overnight stay in vibrant Mumbai and a visit to remote Sir Bani Yas, home to more than 17,000 free-roaming exotic animals. Departs December 29, 2023.
2024-2025 Festive Season Voyage Highlights
Hidden Caribbean Coves: 10 Days from Miami to Miami aboard Vista
Trade gray skies for radiant light on this illuminating jaunt throughout the sun-dappled Caribbean, with ample opportunities to hike verdant peaks, snorkel gin-clear waters, sample local rums, sail a catamaran or simply relax on an idyllic beach. Departs December 17, 2024.
Mangroves of the Maya: 14 Days from Miami to Bridgetown aboard Sirena
Celebrate the holidays in the joyful Caribbean and in the lands of the Maya, exploring impressive ancient pyramids and delicate coral reefs. In Costa Rica, observe mischievous monkeys, and in the Dutch Antilles admire the candy-colored architecture. Departs December 21, 2024.
Antarctic and Patagonian Joy: 24 days from Lima to Buenos Aires aboard Marina
Experience the extraordinary as you weave among the spectacular Chilean Fjords, venture to Antarctica's icy reaches, mingle with penguins in the Falkland Islands and hit the town in vibrant Buenos Aires, where you'll enjoy an overnight stay. Departs December 21, 2024.
Festive Caribbean: 14 days from Miami to Miami aboard Insignia
Create unforgettable holiday memories on this wide-ranging exploration of the sparkling Caribbean, from the colorful Dutch Antilles and Barbados' rum distilleries to the joyous energy of Puerto Rico and idyllic cays of St. Vincent. Departs December 22, 2024.
Sheiks to Shrines: 21 Days from Abu Dhabi to Singapore aboard Riviera
Uncover exotic lands that range from the beguiling sandy expanses of the UAE and the ornate Hindu temples of India to the tropical paradises of Southeast Asia, with overnights in Mumbai, Yangon and Singapore adding to the sense of exhilaration. Departs December 22, 2024.
Wonders of Australia: 20 Days from Sydney to Perth aboard Regatta
Experience Australia's spectacular northern coastline, where the Great Barrier Reef shimmers just offshore, fascinating Aboriginal culture endures, and a frontier spirit permeates everyday life. Guests will enjoy overnight stays in Bali and Perth. Departs December 22, 2024.
Beyond the Panama Canal: 14 Days from Miami to Los Angeles aboard Nautica
Ring in the new year with an incredible passage through the Panama Canal, bookended by stops in Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and lush Puntarenas. Round out the cruise to Los Angeles with an exploration of Mexico's luminous west coast. Departs December 23, 2024.
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Carnival Legend to Sail from San Francisco in 2025
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Carnival Cruise Line will deploy the 2,124 passenger Carnival Legend to continue its seasonal offerings from San Francisco in 2025, offering alternating 10-day Alaska cruises and four-day Baja Mexico sailings. In addition, Carnival Legend will sail two Carnival Journeys cruises – a 14-day Panama Canal transit taking guests from Tampa, Fla. to San Francisco and a 15-day voyage that offers a spectacular Hawaiian getaway. These sailings open for sale today.
 “Carnival Miracle has been sailing from San Francisco since 2022, so we wanted to offer our guests a new option for the 2025 season – Carnival Legend is a sister ship to Carnival Miracle. She’s similar in size and layout, but offers some variety in terms of features and amenities,” said Fred Stein, vice president of revenue planning and deployment. “Carnival Legend will be a perfect addition to the port as we continue to expand our West Coast service offerings and strengthen our position as the cruise line embarking more guests than any other operator from California.”
The following is an overview of the new offerings on Carnival Legend from San Francisco beginning in April 2025:
Alaska Sailings
Carnival Legend will begin 10-day cruises to Alaska on May 12, 2025. Guests will visit picturesque destinations, including Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and a memorable scenic cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord in Alaska, as well as Prince Rupert, B.C. in Canada.
Mexico Sailings
Carnival Legend’s first cruise from San Francisco on May 8, 2025, will bring guests on a four-day Baja Mexico cruise with a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before the ship’s Alaska series begins. Throughout the summer, Carnival Legend will offer an additional eight of these four-day weekend getaways.
Carnival Journeys
Ahead of its move to San Francisco, Carnival Legend will offer a 14-day Carnival Journeys Panama Canal cruise that departs Tampa, Fla. on April 24, 2025. The ship will visit Cartagena, Colombia before transiting the Panama Canal, followed by visits to Puntarenas, Costa Rica and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, arriving in San Francisco on May 8, 2025.
Following its series of Alaska and Baja Mexico cruises, Carnival Legend will sail a unique 15-day roundtrip Carnival Journeys cruise to Hawaii from San Francisco. Departing Sept. 21, 2025, the ship will visit Kahului, Maui; Honolulu, Oahu; Nawiliwili, Kauai; and Hilo, Hawaii; as well as Ensenada, Mexico.
Carnival Legend features many of the signature venues guests know and love on board – from Guy’s Burger Joint to the BlueIguana Cantina, the RedFrog and Alchemy bars, as well as WaterWorks Aqua Park and The Punchliner Comedy Club – and offers several accommodation options, including 50 suites and more than 630 balcony staterooms.
Carnival recently announced deployment plans for 2025 Alaska cruises departing Seattle. Carnival Spirit and Carnival Luminosa will each offer week-long sailings that visit the region’s most popular destinations. To see all Alaska cruises currently open for sale, click here. Additional 2025-26 deployment details will be announced soon, with more itineraries becoming available in the coming weeks.
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Virgin Voyages Announces $550 Million in Funding
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Virgin Voyages (the "Company"), the multi, award-winning cruise brand from Richard Branson's Virgin Group, today announced it has closed on a $550 million capital raise to accelerate its growth plans. The funding round was led by funds managed by the Private Equity Group of Ares Management ("Ares"), a leading global alternative investment manager, and also includes additional capital from existing investors including Virgin Group and Bain Capital. The new funding raise will enable Virgin Voyages to strengthen its financial position while supporting the brand's rapid expansion into international markets, with a relentless focus on creating an outstanding and innovative customer experience.
As Virgin Voyages looks ahead to its next phase of growth, the Company further announced that founding Chief Executive Officer, Tom McAlpin, is retiring as CEO and transitioning to the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors. He will continue to support the brand and team at an executive and industry level. Nirmal Saverimuttu, who currently serves as President and Chief Experience Officer, has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer.
 "It is hard to express just how proud I am of all that the Virgin Voyages Crew has created and the strong endorsement we are receiving from Ares. We have won numerous industry awards and received many five-star reviews because of our passion for this brand," said McAlpin. "While I will miss the day-to-day, I believe it is the right time to step aside as CEO. Nirmal is a great friend and experienced leader who lives and breathes the Virgin Voyages culture. I know he will help take this amazing brand and Crew to new heights, and I look forward to continuing to support the leadership team as Chairman."
Virgin Voyages officially launched in August 2021 and currently operates three ships, servicing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and by the end of the year, Australia and New Zealand. The brand is already making waves, including being named No. 1 in the mega-ship category in the 2023 Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards and a recent clean-sweep of the five cruise categories in the 2023 Cruise Critic Cruisers' Choice Awards.
"With this new investment alongside our partners at Virgin Group and Bain Capital, we believe the Company is on strong footing to capitalize on its differentiated product and value proposition in the growing cruise industry," said Aaron Rosen, Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of Special Opportunities in the Ares Private Equity Group. "We believe that Virgin Voyages continues to be at the forefront of industry growth, and we look forward to working with Tom, Nirmal and the entire management team on this next chapter," added Jordan Smith, Partner in the Ares Private Equity Group.
"The success of this capital raise shows how much Virgin Voyages has achieved and how much further it can go. We are very proud of the experience that Virgin Voyages has created and continues to deliver every day across its fleet," said Josh Bayliss, CEO of the Virgin Group. "At Virgin, we have always aimed to create extraordinary experiences and challenge the status quo while putting purpose at the core of everything we do. With Tom at the helm, Virgin Voyages has established itself as a company that can do that consistently. We are so grateful for his and the team's leadership in creating a truly brilliant business and look forward to this next phase of the Company's growth."
Saverimuttu was a founding leader of Virgin Voyages and joined the business as Chief Commercial Officer in 2014 from the Virgin Group after successfully closing the first investment round. In early 2021, he took on the expanded role of President and Chief Experience Officer.
"I want to send our deepest thanks, on behalf of all our Crew and the Board, to Tom for his leadership and passion for the business. We are so grateful for all he has done and are thrilled to continue to partner with him as our Chairman," said Saverimuttu. "Virgin Voyages is a beloved brand because of our Crew's dedication and passion for delivering epic experiences for our guests. I am looking forward to working with the Ares team and our existing investors to deliver on our growth and expansion plans as we look ahead to our very bright future."
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as exclusive financial advisor and sole placement agent to Virgin Voyages. Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Virgin Voyages. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal counsel to Ares.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.48 |
- 1.59% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
97.66 |
- 0.04% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.66 |
+ 1.59% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Name the two sister ships, built in the 1950's, that reportedly had deck space in their "dummy" funnels set aside for topless sunbathing.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
When the SS France was built for the French Line in 1960 she cost $80 million. How much did Norwegian Cruise Line pay for the classic liner when they acquired her in 1979 to sail as the SS Norway?
Answer - NCL bought the France for 18M USD in 1979.
courtesy of Jonas Ekstam, Stockholm, Sweden
Cruise News - September 4, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Unveils Inaugural Season Sailings for Allura
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Oceania Cruises has revealed the Inaugural Season sailings for Allura, its newest ship, due to join the fleet in summer 2025. The 26 Inaugural Season sailings span more than 92 destinations on various seven- to 34-day voyages and will open for sale on September 13, 2023. The opulent newbuild will boast standard staterooms measuring at an astounding 291 square feet, larger than many entry-level suites on some ultra-luxury cruise lines.
 As the line's second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship, she follows her sister, Vista, which launched to great global acclaim this past May in a glittering christening ceremony and sold-out debut season. On a journey to the ultimate Oceania Cruises experience, Allura's monumental Inaugural Season is bound to excite any traveler's desires and can be viewed online beginning September 6, 2023, at www.OceaniaCruises.com.
Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, commented: "Excitement is already building in advance of Allura's debut. This beautiful new addition to our family embodies the dynamic and dazzling future of Oceania Cruises. Allura heralds the ultimate evolution of our onboard experience, and her Inaugural Season is designed to entice curious world travelers, to allow them to reconnect with well-loved favorite destinations and discover new ones for the first time."
Calling at gems in the Eastern Mediterranean, the new vessel will sail her maiden voyage on a seven-day journey from Athens to Istanbul, departing on June 8, 2025. True to her name, Allura will journey to some of the most intriguing and inspiring destinations in her opening European season with calls at iconic cities and lesser-known gems such as Cádiz, Cagliari, Messina, Palma de Mallorca, Palermo and Cinque Terre and will feature overnight stays in Istanbul, Monte Carlo, Quebec City, Montreal and New York. From her summer season in the Mediterranean, Allura will sail to Canada and New England for an extended season in North America before her premiere winter season in the Caribbean. Thoughtfully curated for seasoned global travelers, a sample of Allura's inaugural voyages may be found below:
Maiden Voyage – Athens to Istanbul, June 8, 2025, 7 days: Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Santorini, Greece; Heraklion (Crete), Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Canakkale (Troy), Turkey; Istanbul, Turkey
Flourishing Rivieras – Rome to Athens, July 29, 2025, 17 days: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa/Tuscany (Livorno), Italy; Portofino, Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; Saint-Tropez, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Sorrento/Capri, Italy; Santorini, Greece; Rhodes, Greece; Antalya, Turkey; Bodrum, Turkey; Patmos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Explorer's Grand Crossing – Rome to New York, August 27, 2025, 34 days: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Salerno, Italy; Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Valletta, Malta; Ibiza, Spain; Valencia, Spain; Barcelona, Spain; Provence (Marseille), France; Cannes, France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Provence (Marseille), France; Barcelona (Tarragona), Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Cartagena, Spain; Málaga, Spain; Gibraltar, UK; Tangier, Morocco; Seville (Cádiz), Spain; Portimão, Portugal; Lisbon, Portugal; Funchal (Madeira), Portugal; Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal; Horta (Azores), Portugal; St. John's, Newfoundland; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, New York
Maples & Manors – New York to Montreal, October 18, 2025, 11 days: New York, New York; Newport, Rhode Island; Boston, Massachusetts; Portland, Maine; Saint John (Bay of Fundy), New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Saguenay, Quebec; Quebec City, Quebec; Montreal, Quebec
Holiday Havens – Miami to Miami, December 21, 2025, 14 days: Miami, Florida; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao; Kralendijk, Bonaire; St. George's, Grenada; Kingstown, St. Vincent; Bridgetown, Barbados; Roseau, Dominica; St. John's, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Miami, Florida
On top of exquisite destination itineraries, Allura is no exception when it comes to serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea®. Guests will marvel at specialty dining venues, including new signature restaurants Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost; and enjoy innovative and surprising cocktails served by master mixologists at the Founders Bar. On Allura, guests are called to experience the essence of greater luxury.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Inaugural Voyage From Maryland's Port of Baltimore
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The Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore today welcomed Norwegian Cruise Line to Maryland to begin a fall and winter sailing schedule. For the first time in the company’s history, Norwegian will have two ships homeporting from Maryland: Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun. The ships will offer cruises from Baltimore to Canada and New England, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
 “Norwegian is one of the top cruise lines in the world, and they recognize that Maryland’s Port of Baltimore is an amazing partner, offering convenient access and outstanding service,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “The arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line heightens the impact of cruising as an economic engine for our state. The industry already generates nearly 400 jobs and $63 million in annual local business revenues.”
Norwegian Sky embarks today on a 10-day Canada and New England cruise, with visits to Martha’s Vineyard; Boston; Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Cape Breton Island; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Saguenay, Quebec; and Quebec City. On September 21, Norwegian Sky will sail on an 11-day Canada and New England voyage. In addition, Norwegian Sun will offer warm weather escapes with a five-day Bermuda cruise November 22 and three, 12-day voyages to the Caribbean on November 27, December 9 and December 21. Norwegian Sky also will return to the Port of Baltimore in September 2024.
The Port of Baltimore has offered year-round cruising since 2009. Prior to the pandemic in 2019, the Port averaged more than 200,000 passengers annually. Following a cruise industry-wide pause during the pandemic, Baltimore’s passenger counts have strongly rebounded, with its ships currently sailing at full capacity. Baltimore’s cruise terminal is located right off Interstate 95 and offers plenty of onsite parking.
“Today marks a history-making moment for Norwegian Cruise Line, as we sail from the vibrant city of Baltimore for the first time," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Our voyages from the Port of Baltimore offer guests the best that cruising on the East Coast has to offer, with a convenient homeport option that allows them to experience both the breathtaking fall foliage of Canada and New England and warm weather winter escapes in Bermuda and the Caribbean. As we continue to grow our fleet of now 19 ships, we actively look for new opportunities and communities to introduce the Norwegian Cruise Line experience. This fall, we’ll also celebrate the one-year anniversary of our Military Appreciation program, where we honor active and retired service members with exclusive offers and onboard experiences. Given the strong military community in Baltimore and the surrounding areas, we look forward to having these service members participate in our program and join us at sea soon.”
Norwegian Cruise Line is an industry leader, pioneering freedom and flexibility and continuously raising the standards of contemporary cruising with award-winning and varied food and beverage concepts; world-class entertainment; and outstanding service. Norwegian Cruise Line sails to 400 destinations around the world across its fleet of 19 ships. Norwegian Cruise Line now adds Baltimore to its impressive line-up of more than 50 convenient global homeport options.
More than 40 million people are within a six-hour drive of Baltimore, and two-thirds of the nation’s population are within an overnight drive of Baltimore.
“We’re very happy to have Norwegian, one of the top cruise lines in the world, sailing from the Port of Baltimore,” said Maryland Port Administration - Port of Baltimore Interim Acting Executive Director Brian Miller. “Our cruise terminal’s unique location allows for easy access for cruise passengers from many Eastern and Midwestern states. Our local market is also one of the wealthiest in the nation. These are significant reasons why we’ve been successful as a cruise port.”
The Port of Baltimore generates about 15,300 direct jobs, with nearly 140,000 jobs overall linked to Port activities. The Port is first among the nation’s ports for autos and light truck volume, roll on/roll off farm and construction machinery and imported gypsum. The Port is responsible for nearly $3.3 billion in personal wages and salaries, $2.6 billion in business revenue and $395 million in state and local tax revenue annually.
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Seabourn's New Expedition Ship, Seabourn Pursuit, Unveils Art Collection
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Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury ocean voyages and expedition travel, and renowned for creating exquisitely designed spaces aboard its ships that exemplify themes of exploration and adventure, has unveiled an extraordinary collection of custom art on board Seabourn Pursuit, its newly launched, purpose-built expedition vessel. The extensive, permanent installation includes more than 700 artworks and takes guests on a curated journey across the seven seas.
Seabourn's expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, bear strong resemblance as sister ships that share the same DNA in design. However, art stands out as one of the most prominent and character-defining points of differentiation between them. Commissioned by Seabourn design partner, Tihany Design, led by Founder & Principal Adam D. Tihany and Partner Alessia Genova, the atelier engaged London-based curatorial studio Double Decker to develop a sophisticated, thoughtful and bespoke art collection exclusively for Seabourn Pursuit, as a completely unique, curatorial expression of the designers' vision: "an expedition of discoveries." It features custom art that masterfully celebrates the wonders of our planet and the great explorers of our time, infused with geographic inspiration. By intention, the result—bold, more colorful and playful with a modern attitude—markedly contrasts with the more subtle, sophisticated storytelling of Seabourn Venture's art program by French studio Atelier 27.
 Working with artists, designers and fabricators globally to conjure the vision and tell these stories, Double Decker co-directors Wilhelm Finger and Melita Skamnaki pursued elegant yet brave works that create a sense of connection with those who sailed before, to enhance the guests' own sense of discovery in the present moment. With hundreds of pieces on board, each conjuring a unique experience and connection with its surroundings, art invites passengers to be curious and treats them to powerful and unforgettable visual adventures along Seabourn Pursuit's dramatic routes. The ship itself has emerged as a new frontier of appreciation for art enthusiasts at sea.
"We had a vision to deliver a dynamic and harmonious experience of exploration by creating a unique synergy to unite the masterful interior design by Tihany Design and the bespoke art collection with the powerful, state-of-the-art capabilities on this purpose-built luxury expedition ship," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "As a result, our guests will experience an unexpected layer of imaginative discoveries and be inspired by the smallest details, symbols, hidden messages in every corner to provoke a deep sense of personal exploration and appreciation. Seabourn Pursuit's art collection will elevate the onboard experience as guests embark on their own journey to interact with new environments that in some cases no humans have seen before."
Among the many works and themes to captivate and catch the eyes of Seabourn Pursuit guests:
• Magical Sky (Deck 4 – Main Atrium) – Sculpture installation exclusively commissioned for Seabourn Pursuit, this captivating piece was envisioned and designed by curator Double Decker. inspired by their impression of the sky's alluring shapes and colors visible along the ship's journeys. The concave dome atop a plinth invites passengers to look inside and discover multiple layers and reflections within, connecting them in an abstract yet moving way to the sky under which they travel. Produced by custom fabricator Cory Barr.
DOUBLE DECKER 2023
• Water Drops (Deck 9 – Forward Stairs) – Newly commissioned pieces in a series featuring Murano blown glass from Milan-based 6:AM Glassworks bear the feelings of water, sea and ice.
6:AM GLASSWORKS 2023
• 0° SERIES (Deck 4 – The Restaurant) – Stunning photographic collection showcases tropical flowers in ice to create unexpected, enchanting dialogue between Amazonian flora and Polar ice. Together with artist Tharien Smith, Boyd's extremely elaborate technique freezes flower arrangements in blocks of ice; after several days, they are put into rivers or lakes, and the process causes cracks and bubbles to form inside the ice blocks, the flowers part of an active transformation. Only then do Boyd and Smith begin taking photos. Randomness, intention, enchanting beauty and dynamic unpredictability are at play.
BRUCE BOYD 2023
• Oscillation (Deck 5 – Colonnade) - Renowned South African artist Chris Soal created the wall sculpture Oscillation as a sustainable work comprised of metal bottle tops, coiled in a rope-like pattern, and expanding out from a central point. From afar, this work has a strong luxury and design aesthetic, which becomes tactile as the viewer moves closer to discover its surprising details.
CHRIS SOAL 2023
• Harvest (Deck 5 – Colonnade) - Italian painter Gabriel Carucci encourages more discovery with seemingly simple, geometric block patterns, revealing on closer inspection carefully selected sections of intricate embroidery and other whimsical textile elements, creating subtle tonal shifts. Tessellations of flat tints of color occupy the surface of the paintings, merging with forms of intertwined threads giving rise to abstract motions. The labor-intensive nature of this practice deliberately evokes visual cues that direct the painted surface and subsequently the viewer's perception.
GABRIEL CARUCCI 2023
• Amazônia (Deck 6 – Seabourn Square) – Exclusively commissioned for Seabourn Pursuit, the acrylic paintings of celebrated Brazilian artist James Kudo depict architectural spaces, animals, flora and fauna, in a vivid palette of acrylic paint. Composed of cleanly delineated forms, from a distance these pieces appear graphic, yet on closer inspection they unveil a painterly texture.
JAMES KUDO 2023
• Canyon Fall II (Deck 6 – Seabourn Square) – Celebrated London-based sculptor Joseph Harrington, created this cast glass sculpture to evoke an iceberg with brilliant intricacies within, to delight and intrigue the viewer, allowing texture, light and sense of mass to continuously play.
JOSEPH HARRINGTON 2022
• Blue & Green Anthropophora (Deck 9 – Sky Bar) – Created from glazed stoneware with PVC rubber coating, this artwork presents a bold color and bulbous, textural style that grounds us back in the world of contemporary art. It plays its own game, mimicking the forms of ancient artefacts, such as a Greek amphora.
MAXWELL MUSTARDO 2022
• Beyond the Sky (Deck 9 – Constellation Lounge) -- Up-and-coming artist Sogon Kim created twin glass pieces Beyond the Sky to reflect sea and sky. Incorporating silver leaf and metal oxides, this work explores glass as a conduit for color and light.
SOGON KIM 2022
• Artifacts Collection (Seabourn Square and Suites) – An eclectic, mesmerizing collection that evokes unique wondrous wildlife and natural phenomena unearthed by pioneering expeditions.
• Etched Glass Mural Partitions (Expedition Lounge) – This set of commissioned glass installations – Amazonian Moon and Arctic Moon – celebrates the moon's resonating beauty, magic and enduring presence in night skies from the Amazon to the Arctic. Panels feature etched glass textures, colored glass, special finishes of gold and silver leaf, and the moon depicted in 3D with flower and silver-infused glass.
• Graphic Glass Panels (Atrium Staircase) – Inspired by the winding coastlines of Seabourn destinations. Commissioned to re-interpret the natural coastal geography seen on the vessel's voyages.
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Disney Treasure Maiden Voyage Set for December 2024
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Disney Cruise Line’s new ship, the Disney Treasure, will unlock the far-reaching realms of Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel and embrace dynamic tales from beloved Disney Parks attractions, through captivating and immersive experiences on the high seas.
The Disney Treasure, the sister ship to the Disney Wish that launched in 2022, will embark on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 21, 2024, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral. Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members can book a Disney Treasure cruise as early as Sept. 12, 2023, and bookings will open to all guests on Sept. 20, 2023.
 The Disney Treasure will harness a design concept that calls upon the bold and heartwarming stories of beloved Disney characters. Adventure will serve as the architectural and thematic foundation of the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, in honor of Walt Disney’s legendary passion for travel and exploration. On board, guests will find fan-favorite spaces from the Disney Wish, infused with this theme of adventure and inspired by memorable Disney stories like “Aladdin,” “Coco” and “Zootopia.”
In addition to the return of two beloved Disney Cruise Line restaurant concepts found on the Disney Wish, the Disney Treasure will introduce a brand-new family entertainment restaurant.
• Plaza de Coco will be the world’s first theatrical dining experience themed to the Disney and Pixar film, “Coco.” The story of Miguel and his familia will continue where it left off on screen as they gather in Mariachi Plaza to take guests on two nights of colorful, music-filled journeys that celebrate family memories and togetherness with festive dinner menus of modern twists on traditional Mexican fare and a lineup of live entertainment.
• Worlds of Marvel, Disney Cruise Line’s immersive Marvel-themed dining experience, celebrates favorite Avengers characters and stories, including an amazing interaction with Spider-Man. This high-tech venue aboard the Disney Treasure will offer a worldly menu and special entertainment, including two separate nights with distinct shows and dining, all inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
• 1923, named for the founding year of Walt Disney Animation Studios, will celebrate the profound impact of Disney’s animation legacy and bring to life Walt Disney’s love of adventure through a nostalgic collection of exploration-themed artwork from both modern and classic animated films. Steeped in the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age, the venue’s upscale ambiance will complement a sophisticated menu inspired by the fusion of cultural flavors found throughout California and designed with families in mind.
The Disney Treasure will continue Disney Cruise Line’s innovative family dining concept, where guests experience one of three imaginative restaurants each night, accompanied by a dedicated service team that joins them throughout the voyage, adding a level of familiarity to their dining experience.
In addition to three main family restaurants, the new ship will feature quick bites, casual dining, 24-hour room service, specialty treats, gourmet cafes, upscale dining just for adults, and Jumbeaux’s Sweets, inspired by the popular ice cream parlor featured in Disney’s “Zootopia.”
Captivating Family Entertainment
Families will come together to enjoy both new and timeless, beloved Disney Cruise Line entertainment aboard the Disney Treasure, immersing guests in worlds both real and imagined, through interactive storytelling, character encounters and Broadway-style theatrical adaptations of inspiring Disney adventures.
The Grand Hall will be the key to unlocking a trove of captivating new entertainment, including dedicated shows, character encounters and musical performances. As the story unfolds for guests on the Disney Treasure, the “Aladdin”-themed Grand Hall will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space, inspiring wonder and exploration during each voyage.
Named for the lioness matriarch from Disney’s “The Lion King,” Sarabi will be a central hub for a multitude of daytime activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment. The uniquely designed two-story space will evoke the natural beauty and openness of the savanna and will feature cruise line classics such as “Match Your Mate” and “Family Time Game Show,” and new favorites that debuted on the Disney Wish like “Villains Game Night.”
The Walt Disney Theatre is an opulent show palace that will come alive with original Broadway-style productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line – “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure” – both Disney Cruise Line fan-favorites. The former will bring Belle’s enchanting adventure to life on stage by incorporating imaginative elements from the live-action film and the classic animated feature, while the latter will be an original musical spectacular that features beloved characters from Disney and Pixar stories alongside rousing renditions of iconic Disney songs. More details about a third, all-new show coming to the Disney Treasure will be released soon.
Hero Zone and the Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, popular spaces from the Disney Wish, will provide family entertainment aboard the Disney Treasure. Hero Zone will offer a progressive sports and recreation venue where action-packed physical challenges will blend with game show-style competitions, while the Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, intimate, luxe screening rooms, will elevate the onboard cinematic experience for guests to watch first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and more.
Fun in the Sun on the Upper Decks
Surrounded by both the open ocean and sky, the adventures will continue on the upper decks of the Disney Treasure with three distinct districts offering fun water activities, quick and casual dining options and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
In an expansive district themed to Mickey and friends, families will discover seven pools staggered among tiered decks, an abundance of luxe lounge chairs, an imaginative take on fast-casual fare with a festive character twist and Disney Cruise Line’s own attraction at sea, AquaMouse.
AquaMouse: Curse of the Golden Egg will plunge guests into the world of Mickey Mouse animated shorts. Suspended high above the upper decks, powerful jets will propel two-person ride vehicles through 760 feet of winding tubes, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the ship below. Onboard the Disney Treasure, AquaMouse will introduce an all-new storyline that follows Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a zany misadventure into an ancient temple. Guests will journey with the pair as they embark on a tour of mysterious ruins for a glimpse of the legendary treasure within and encounter a series of hilarious mishaps and booby traps that take the trek in unexpected directions.
Like aboard the Disney Wish, little ones will delight in a Toy Story-themed district designed especially for families with toddlers and young children that will include a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and smoothie bar.
In addition, adults can indulge in sun-drenched serenity at Quiet Cove, a peaceful refuge dedicated to lounging, sipping and soaking. Set away from the bustle of family activities, this secluded adults-only district will feature a luxurious infinity pool, poolside bar and chic cafe.
Relaxing Retreats and Exciting Exploration for Adults
Aboard the Disney Treasure, adults will explore, relax, dine and play with venues and entertainment tailored just for them. These adult-only experiences will offer elevated interpretations of Disney adventures and Disney Parks attractions, with sophisticated theming ranging from subtle inspiration to full immersion, allowing guests to customize their vacation according to their interests.
Periscope Pub will be Disney Cruise Line’s first venue inspired by the spellbinding adventure of Walt Disney’s 1954 film, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” and the celebrated Disney Parks attraction that was open at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994. Guests will dive into the mythical depths of uncharted oceans amidst the submarine-styled interiors and take a look at the watery world below through an intriguing glass ceiling. In addition to watching the latest sports games, explorers at the Periscope Pub will encounter a menu of craft brews and light bites.
Adventure awaits guests beneath a tangle of untamed foliage at Skipper Society, a centrally located outpost that will feature refined nods to the iconic Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney theme parks around the globe. The venue’s natural colorways and camp-style furnishings, paired with sly tributes to the trusty, dry-witted skippers who lead world-famous tours across treacherous waterways, will offer an elevated, yet playful atmosphere where guests will indulge in themed cocktails and light snacks.
Fan-favorite, adult-exclusive dining locations will also return on the Disney Treasure. Guests will savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement and The Rose, an upscale suite of epicurean excellence exclusively for adults, inspired by the elegant icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.”
• The popular Palo Steakhouse will come to the Disney Treasure, combining the relaxed sophistication of authentic Italian dining with the classic refinement of a modern steakhouse in a genteel setting inspired by Cogsworth, the tale’s majordomo-turned-enchanted-clock.
• Enchanté will offer the most luxurious dining experience on board, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement. This romantic and intimate venue will evoke the dazzling spirit of the film’s candelabra maître d’, Lumiere.
• The Rose will be a chic lounge at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté. Inspired by the fateful flower at the heart of the story, The Rose will be an idyllic setting for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail.
• Senses Spa is a tranquil oasis offering indulgent spa and beauty treatments, drawing on the serenity of natural elements to promote pampering and relaxation. The spa will feature private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms, while the reimagined Senses Fitness will offer state-of-the-art exercise and wellness facilities.
Other adult-exclusive spaces on board the Disney Treasure will include the Quiet Cove pool district, a variety of gourmet cafes, relaxed bars and upscale lounges, and more.
Artful Accommodations
The luxurious accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will strike an inviting balance between modern design and nostalgic charm with a fresh, natural color scheme and custom artwork that will entice guests to peer beyond their staterooms into fantastical worlds from heartwarming Disney adventures.
The staterooms on board are built with families in mind and feature upscale amenities. Most will include Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bath concept, and many will offer the option of a connecting door that adjoins staterooms to accommodate larger groups voyaging together – with 451 connecting doors in all. In addition, most of the ship’s 1,256 staterooms will offer an ocean view — including 877 (70 percent) with a verandah.
The Disney Treasure will elevate the concierge experience for those guests seeking luxury and a premium level of dedicated service. The concierge-level staterooms and suites will offer both adventure and indulgence, and an exclusive concierge lounge with a private sun deck that serves as the perfect place to relax, sip a cocktail and enjoy a variety of food and beverages throughout the day. Onboard the Disney Treasure, concierge-level suites will feature elegant interiors inspired by the majestic grasslands Simba calls home in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Lion King.”
The adventure-inspired accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will also extend to four royal suites that pay tribute to the faithful feline companions of daring Disney characters. The upscale designs will include the Bagheera Royal Suites, honoring the noble panther from “The Jungle Book” and the lush forests he calls home, and the Rajah Royal Suites, themed to Princess Jasmine’s protective tiger who dwells in the royal palace of Agrabah in the classic Disney film, “Aladdin.”
Like the Disney Wish, the Disney Treasure is being constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany and will also be powered by liquefied natural gas. At approximately 144,000 gross tons, the Disney Treasure will be slightly larger than the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.73 |
+ 0.13% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
97.70 |
- 0.63% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.40 |
- 1.68% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
When the SS France was built for the French Line in 1960 she cost $80 million. How much did Norwegian Cruise Line pay for the classic liner when they acquired her in 1979 to sail as the SS Norway?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What was the name of the last cruise ship to sail the Haifa to New York route for Israel's Zim lines and when was her final crossing on that route?
Answer - The last Zim ship to sail from Haifa to NYC was the Shalom, which was most recently laid up as Regent Sun.
courtesy of David Rodstein, Philadephia
Cruise News - August 28, 2023
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Holland America Line's 2025 Europe Season Focuses on Longer Cruises
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Holland America Line's 2025 European season will allow travelers to broaden their horizons like never before on the most diverse, destination-focused itineraries in the industry. With an increase in cruises over 10 days, more sailings to Iceland and a combined 62 overnight calls or late-night departures in leading European cities, Holland America Line is enticing travelers to become immersed in the culture, history and landscapes of the region.
New in 2025, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, returns as a homeport for Holland America Line, hosting Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam on roundtrip voyages to Northern Europe and the Baltic. The cruise line also features more itineraries to trending hot spots like the Holy Land region, Iberia and Iceland. A new 28-day "Arctic Circle Crossing" Legendary Voyage showcases the pristine backdrop of Greenland's glaciers and wildlife with five calls in the country and visits to Iceland, North Cape and Scotland.
 "For Holland America Line, Europe 2025 is all about longer cruises, extended time in port and offering the most diverse range of itineraries from weeklong vacations to monthlong explorations," said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer of Holland America Line. "We have 10 departure cities this season, and we are excited to be back homeporting in Rotterdam with two ships, deepening our connection to our founding city. Anyone looking to explore Europe in-depth will be able to find a Holland America Line cruise tailored to their interests, whether it's beach, history, nature, architecture, fjords, castles or cuisine."
From April to November, Oosterdam joins Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam for a full season in Europe, while Zuiderdam sails the popular 35-day "Voyage of the Vikings." The port-intensive itineraries range from seven to 42 days and are designed for destination immersion. Spanning the entire region, cruises visit the Baltic, British Isles, Canary Islands, French and Spanish rivieras, Israel, Mediterranean and Northern Europe, including Iceland, Greenland and Norway.
Highlights of Holland America Line's 2025 Europe cruising season include:
10 Departure Cities, Including Rotterdam: Rotterdam and Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Barcelona, Spain; Boston, Massachusetts; Civitavecchia (Rome) and Trieste (Venice), Italy; Dover (London), England; Piraeus (Athens), Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
New in 2025, Holland America Line is adding 10 roundtrip Dover itineraries aboard Nieuw Statendam ranging from 14 to 28 days, offering a convenient embarkation homeport for British guests.
11 Overnight Ports: Alexandria, Egypt; Barcelona; Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel; Istanbul, Turkey; Newhaven (Edinburgh), Scotland; Reykjavik; Piraeus (Athens) and Rhodes, Greece; Stockholm, Sweden; Trieste (Venice); and Valletta, Malta.
32 Late-Evening Departure Cities (between 10 p.m. and midnight): Alesund, Norway; Ashdod (Jerusalem) and Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel; Barcelona and Malaga, Spain; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Cannes, France; Civitavecchia (Rome), Portoferraio, Portofino and Trieste (Venice), Italy; Dubrovnik and Korcula, Croatia; Dún Laoghaire (Dublin), Ireland; Funchal, Madeira; Gibraltar, UK; Greenock (Glasgow) and South Queensferry (Edinburgh), Scotland; Kotor, Montenegro; Kusadasi, Turkey; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Lisbon; Liverpool and Portland (Weymouth), England; Kerkira (Corfu) and Mykonos, Greece; Port Said (Cairo), Egypt; Reykjavik; St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; Tallinn, Estonia; Valletta; and Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany.
Northern Europe:
• Rotterdam returns to Northern Europe in 2025 cruising out of its namesake city with roundtrip sailings from Rotterdam:
• Seven-day Norway and Denmark; Norwegian Fjords
• Seven- or 14-day Norway and Scotland
• Seven-day between Rotterdam and Reykjavik to Norway and Iceland
• 14-day Norway, Denmark, Germany, Lithuania, Estonia and Sweden
• 14-day Norway Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland and Sweden
Nieuw Statendam offers Northern Europe cruises to the Baltic, British Isles, Norway up to the North Cape, and the Northern Isles of Scotland and Iceland. The itineraries range from 14 to 28 days and sail roundtrip from Rotterdam.
NEW Legendary Voyage: A 28-day "Arctic Circle Crossing" departs June 29, roundtrip from Rotterdam. The cruise features 15 ports in Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Scotland and England; passage through the Arctic Circle to the North Cape; scenic cruising through Iceland's fjords; and four maiden calls in Greenland: Ittoqqortoormiit, Sisimiut, Ilulissat and Nuuk.
14-Day "Arctic Circle Crossing: Edinburgh Evening Stay" is roundtrip from Rotterdam. Highlights of the cruise include spending Summer Solstice at the North Cape with 24 hours of sunlight, along with a total of five calls in Norway. The cruise also visits the Shetland Islands, England and Scotland, with a late-night departure from Edinburgh.
Mediterranean:
• Oosterdam will sail the entire 2025 Europe season in the Mediterranean on cruises from four homeports: Piraeus (Athens), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Trieste (Venice). The itineraries range from seven- to 14-days and cover the eastern and western Mediterranean, including Albania, Croatia, Egypt, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Malta, Montenegro, Spain, Tunisia and Turkey.
• Nieuw Statendam sails 14-day cruises between Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome) and Piraeus (Athens), and roundtrip from Piraeus. The itineraries head to the eastern Med, including Italy, Egypt, Turkey, Croatia, Malta, Montenegro and Greece.
• Nieuw Statendam explores the Holy Land in October on a 14-day cruise roundtrip from Piraeus (Athens) that visits Cyprus, Israel, Turkey and Greece, with overnights at Haifa and Rhodes.
Canary Islands:
• Nieuw Statendam visits the Canary Islands on a 14-day Canary Island Enchantment with Morocco & Portugal cruise departing April 20, 2025, roundtrip from Rotterdam, also including ports in Morocco, Madeira, Portugal and England.
Transatlantic:
• The popular "Voyage of the Vikings" returns in 2025 aboard Zuiderdam. Departing July 19, the 35-day adventure sails roundtrip from Boston and calls at ports in Maine, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Ireland, Northern Ireland and Norway. The itinerary also is offered in 17- and 18-day segments from Boston to Rotterdam or from Rotterdam to Boston.
• In April, Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam cross the Atlantic Ocean from Fort Lauderdale to Rotterdam; Oosterdam crosses from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona.
• In October and November Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam and Oosterdam sail to Fort Lauderdale via Civitavecchia, Rotterdam and Barcelona, respectively.
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Carnival Cruise Line Announce New Grand Bahama Cruise Port Destination Will Be Called “Celebration Key"
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Cue the Junkanoo band, drumroll please… Carnival Cruise Line has announced that the name of its new destination in the Bahamas is… Celebration Key.
 As Carnival gets ready to open itineraries in late September for cruises that will call on its highly-anticipated exclusive cruise port destination on Grand Bahama, it revealed the name – Celebration Key – to guests, employees, travel advisors and Bahamian officials today. Celebration Key is the first port destination exclusively designed for Carnival Cruise Line guests and its name is based on the vision for the destination to be a celebration of all that Carnival and The Bahamas has to offer for a memorable vacation. Once complete, it will be capable of welcoming two million guests each year.
“We are working very closely with the Government of The Bahamas and the Grand Bahama Port Authority to ensure that we are highlighting the best of Grand Bahama and its culture, combined with fun like only Carnival can provide,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “Invoking the natural beauty of Grand Bahama, every day at Celebration Key will be a celebration of our guests’ own making with a variety of experiences and something for everyone.”
Grand Bahama is a northern island of The Bahamas and is known its breathtaking beaches, lush vegetation, and friendly people. Celebration Key will offer a uniquely Bahamian experience with an abundance of features and amenities, including a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach, as well as Bahamian-operated retail, food and beverage options for Carnival guests to enjoy. For the ultimate convenience and maximum enjoyment time, the adjacent cruise pier will be able to accommodate up to two of Carnival’s Excel-class ships simultaneously to allow guests to walk off the ship and arrive at Celebration Key. A groundbreaking ceremony for the destination was held in May 2022 and design, engineering and construction work is now underway.
In late September, Carnival plans to announce further details of the destination, along with opening for sale the first itineraries on at least ten ships from multiple homeports that will include a visit to Celebration Key, with the first cruises calling on the destination in July 2025.
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Cunard Partners With Pop Art Phenomenon Mr. Brainwash for Unique Queen Elizabeth Mural
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Cunard has raised the anchor on an exciting collaboration with pop art phenomenon Mr. Brainwash as the luxury cruise line continues to champion artistic excellence at sea.
Thierry Guetta, AKA Mr. Brainwash, joined guests and VIPs aboard Queen Elizabeth in his hometown of Los Angeles yesterday (August 22) for an exclusive ceremony in which he officially unveiled a new mural in the ship's Garden Lounge.
 "We are thrilled to have partnered with Mr. Brainwash for Queen Elizabeth's incredible new mural."
The mural is an intricate patchwork of iconic Cunard marketing posters from the 1920s, with Mr. Brainwash spray-painting a unique finishing touch, in his signature graffiti style, during the ceremony to celebrate the best of Cunard and contemporary art.
The bespoke installation "Cunard x Mr. Brainwash" was commissioned in partnership with Clarendon Fine Art, who've represented the leading street artist in the UK since 2020 and whose galleries appear across the Cunard fleet of ships.
Three innovative limited editions have also been created which will be exclusively available to guests and feature each of the three Cunard Queens. Showcasing the iconic vessels, as well as Mr. Brainwash's unique style, the editions will offer guests an opportunity to acquire a unique moment in Cunard's history.
Yesterday's event marked the conclusion of Queen Elizabeth's arts-focused Pacific Coastal sailing from Vancouver to Los Angeles, which offered several Mr. Brainwash-inspired seminars as well as a screening of Banksy's Academy-nominated 'Exit Through the Gift shop' documentary featuring Mr. Brainwash. The largest collection of the artist's original artwork and limited-edition pieces ever seen at sea were also brought onboard for guests to view and purchase in Queen Elizabeth's art gallery.
The Los Angeles-based artist's work is held in public and private collections across the globe, including in all 75 of Clarendon Fine Art's UK and USA galleries as well as across the Cunard fleet. His 'Long Live the King' portrait of King Charles III, released to coincide with the Coronation, was a record release demonstrating the remarkable levels of interest in his work.
Some of his work also features in private collections belonging to the likes of Barack Obama, Al Pacino, Lionel Richie, and Rihanna, and he has also worked on charity collaborations with Pope Francis and the Dalai Lama.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: "We are thrilled to have partnered with Mr. Brainwash for Queen Elizabeth's incredible new mural and it is a privilege to be associated with such an acclaimed and innovative artist. We always strive to provide guests with enriching and unique experiences on board and this one-of-a-kind masterpiece will certainly be enjoyed by our many art lovers."
Thierry Guetta, AKA Mr. Brainwash, who fronts the pop-up Mr. Brainwash Art Museum in Beverly Hills, added: "I am ecstatic to collaborate with Cunard because throughout history, they have proven to be timeless and consistent. This piece of mine holds massive significance. It is very special to me because it merges two worlds together and represents artistic expression on a grand scale. I believe creating accessible art is beautiful because it has the ability to enrich an individual's journey and ignite their imagination no matter where they are in the world or what they are doing. If I can manage to even bring that expression to the high seas, there truly is no limit to where art can go. This unveiling is more than an event; it marks something that will inspire those who see it immediately and for generations to come. In the future, I will look back on this collaboration with beautiful memories attached to it. This collaboration is beautiful."
Helen Swaby, CEO of Clarendon Fine Art, said: "We are proud and privileged that pop art phenomenon Mr. Brainwash has been invited into this unique collaboration with Cunard. For more than a decade we have had the pleasure of entertaining and educating guests aboard Cunard's luxury liners, and ever since we first introduced Mr. Brainwash to guests there has been an overwhelming level of interest and love for this work. In recent times we have rediscovered the importance of positivity and fun and his work has struck a chord with art collectors and art lovers helping us to connect with the lighter side of life. This moment marks the next step in Mr. Brainwash's meteoric rise to fame with his first ever mural taking up residency aboard a cruise ship. We hope that guests on the beautiful Queen Elizabeth enjoy the rare opportunity to view this uplifting and life-affirming artwork by one of the best-loved street artists of modern times."
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Carnival Cruise Line Announces Duo Who Will Lead Texas-Sized Fun Aboard All-New Carnival Jubilee
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As excitement builds around the arrival of Carnival Cruise Line’s next new ship, Carnival Jubilee, the cruise line today announced Matthew Boyd will serve as Entertainment Director and Kyndall “Fire” Magyar as Cruise Director for the ship’s inaugural season. Together, the two will lead the teams that deliver all the fun guests will find aboard the new ship when it begins sailing on Dec. 23, 2023 from its homeport of Galveston, Tex.
 “Watching their dedication come to life on board Carnival Jubilee’s sister ships, I know Kyndall and Matthew are perfectly suited to deliver Texas-sized fun that maximizes the capabilities of this spectacular new ship and upholds our high standards for entertainment,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment.
Both Magyar and Boyd are accomplished leaders who bring a combined 20 years of Carnival experience to the teams they will lead.
Magyar is a Texas native who has been working on Carnival ships since 2016. She most recently served as cruise director aboard Mardi Gras. She was also part of the inaugural team for Carnival Horizon and served as the cruise director of Carnival Vista when the ship returned to service in 2021. She is elated to be part of the inaugural Carnival Jubilee family and bring her home to Texas.
Boyd was recently named Carnival’s 2023 Entertainment Director of the year. He has been part of the Carnival family since 2010 and has served as an entertainment director aboard several ships since 2018. He most recently led the entertainment team aboard Carnival Celebration. He is honored to be the inaugural Entertainment Director of Carnival Jubilee and excited to present guests with all the new entertainment offerings being developed for the new ship.
Carnival Jubilee joins her sisters Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras as the third ship in the fleet powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system. Carnival Jubilee will debut unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones, Currents and The Shores. Carnival Jubilee will be home to other features already popular on board her sister ships, like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster and a transformational three-deck atrium that offers expansive views during the day and doubles as an entertainment venue at night with movable LED screens and theatrical lighting.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.71 |
- 0.00% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
98.32 |
- 0.96% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.68 |
- 1.94% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the name of the last cruise ship to sail the Haifa to New York route for Israel's Zim lines and when was her final crossing on that route?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
If you were departing on a transatlantic crossing from Pier 90 in New York City in the early 1950's, what shipping company would you most likely have been traveling on?
Answer - In the 1950's when you leave the pier 90, you were on a CUNARD's Ocean Liner..
courtesy of Thomas Mousse, Italy
Cruise News - August 21, 2023
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Holland America Announces New 28-Day Legendary Voyage in 2025
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From trending travel destinations to seldom-visited locales, Holland America Line's new 28-day "Arctic Circle Crossing: Greenland & Iceland" is a Legendary Voyage to Greenland, Iceland and Norway. Departing June 29, 2025, aboard Nieuw Statendam, the journey is inspired by the routes of Norse explorer Erik the Red who founded the first European settlement in Greenland.
 Sailing roundtrip from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the cruise features 15 ports across five countries, passage through the Arctic Circle, an overnight in Reykjavik, Iceland, scenic cruising through Iceland and Greenland's spellbinding fjords and four maiden calls in Greenland. Cruisers on the "Arctic Circle Crossing" will set sail on one of Holland America Line's most intensive explorations of this region ever offered.
"Legendary Voyages give us the opportunity to create longer cruises that delve deeper into a region and include ports we don't normally visit, like the four maiden calls in Greenland on the new Arctic Circle Crossing," said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer of Holland America Line. "We're taking this itinerary up to Norway's North Cape, then heading farther north in Greenland on both coasts and adding amazing opportunities in Iceland. At 28 days, it's the perfect length to showcase this area and give our guests an experience that goes beyond a brief introduction to the countries."
Highlights of the 'Arctic Circle Crossing' Legendary Voyage
• 28 days, departing June 29, 2025, roundtrip from Rotterdam.
• 15 calls in five countries (listed in order of visit): Ålesund, Trondheim, Honningsvåg (North Cape) and Tromsø, Norway; Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund), Greenland; Akureyri and Isafjördur Iceland; Nuuk (Godthåb), Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Ilulissat (Jakobshavn) and Nanortalik, Greenland; Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight); Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) and Invergordon (Inverness), Scotland; and Dover (London), England.
• Maiden Calls, all in Greenland: Nuuk, Ittoqqortoormiit, Sisimiut, Ilulissat.
• Crossing the Arctic Circle at several points throughout the voyage.
• Overnight call July 20 and 21 in Reykjavik.
• Scenic cruising opportunities: North Cape (Norway); Jan Mayen Island, a Norwegian volcanic island in the Arctic Ocean; Scoresbysund (Greenland); and Eyjafjördur and Ísafjardardjúr (Iceland).
What is a 'Legendary Voyage'?
These lengthier cruises, which range from 25 to 59 days, combine the ceremony of Holland America Line's Grand Voyages while focusing on a singular region. They visit some of the most unique ports while offering guests an in-depth exploration. Shipboard programming is specially curated to share insights into the history and culture of the destinations visited.
Legendary Voyages are offered on a variety of the line's perfectly sized ships where guests enjoy the "best of" Grand Voyages on-board programming such as iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways and classic cruise activities to further enhance the experience.
Who is Erik the Red?
Norse explorer Erik Thorvaldsson, known as Erik the Red, was exiled from Iceland and set out to explore the land to the west, which he named Greenland. After establishing the first European settlement on an island near Qaqortoq, he returned to Iceland to bring more settlers back to Greenland. He is the father of Leif Erikson, one of the first Europeans to reach North America.
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Celebrity Cruises Announces New Itineraries Bringing Four Ships to Three Florida Ports
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Celebrity Cruises, the award-winning premium cruise line pioneering resort travel at sea, is thrilled to unveil all-new Caribbean offerings for the Winter 2024-2025 season on board four stellar ships – Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit. Embarking from three Florida ports: Central Florida's Port Canaveral, West Florida's Port Tampa Bay, and South Florida's Port Everglades, travelers will enjoy more than 40 new itineraries, all open for booking on August 22, 2023. Catering to the diverse needs of today's consumer, the new program offers a wide range of experiences, from rejuvenating quick getaways to weekly 7-night cruises, and up to 9-night escapes. Transporting guests to tropical hotspots from Belize and Bimini to Grand Cayman and San Juan, a select number of itineraries also offer the opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.
 "We are so excited to unveil this new program. It provides our guests with more options to experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean, which is elevated by our personalized experiences on board," says Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. "As part of this expansion, we are thrilled to add Port Canaveral to our list of home ports – it is a perfect market to reach a wide mix of both in- and out-of-state travelers looking for fun in the Caribbean sun."
More Opportunities to Sail from South Florida and Visit Perfect Day at CocoCay
As part of the new program, Celebrity will expand its offerings from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades, to include more opportunities to set sail on two award-winning ships: Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Summit. From October 23, 2024, to March 8, 2025, travelers can enjoy five new sailings on Apex, ranging from 6- to 7-night itineraries visiting destinations like St. Maarten, San Juan, Grand Cayman, and Mexico, as well as select sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay.
A vibrant private island paradise nestled in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers the best of beach-side bliss and sun-soaked excitement. With something for everyone, guests can enjoy miles of pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, take a dip in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and swim up to the bar for a refreshing tropical cocktail. Plus, guests can experience the ultimate in relaxation and privacy at Coco Beach Club that features a heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, 20 exclusive overwater cabanas, and more. Debuting in January 2024, Perfect Day at CocoCay will introduce Hideaway Beach – an adults-only paradise, with private cabanas and a new signature food outlet.
Additionally, from February 25, 2025, to April 10, 2025, Summit will offer five new itineraries ranging from 5- to 9-night across the Western and Eastern Caribbean.
"As one of Celebrity Cruises' homeports, we are excited about the new sailings on Apex and Summit. In addition to the line's 'resort at sea' experience, their cruise guests can expect to experience unrivalled customer service and ease of sailing at Port Everglades," said Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Jonathan Daniels.
Celebrity Comes to Port Canaveral
For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises will sail out of Orlando's Port Canaveral with 20 new itineraries, from November 21, 2024, to April 19, 2025, on board the intimate Celebrity Equinox. With most itineraries spanning 7-nights, travelers will have the opportunity to visit highly sought-after Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico, San Juan, and St. Maarten. Just in time for the Spring Break season, two sailings on March 1st and March 15th, 2025, will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.
"We are thrilled to welcome Celebrity Cruises as our new partner and honored to be part of their Caribbean expansion plans," said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. "The demand for Celebrity Cruise sailings from our Port has been growing. Now, with Celebrity Equinox homeported here, there are great opportunities for even more cruise travelers to experience the cruise line's high-quality experience, while experiencing the comfort and ease of travel provided by our Port."
Refreshed Caribbean Offerings from Port Tampa Bay
Celebrity Cruises will revamp its current Caribbean program out of Port Tampa Bay. Guests can now enjoy more frequent opportunities to set sail with 6- to 7-night cruises on board Celebrity Constellation. The new program expands the brand's offerings with four new itineraries and a total of 14 sailings for the season from January 2, 2025, to April 6, 2025. These itineraries will visit destinations like Belize, Honduras, Key West, Mexico, and New Orleans during Mardi Gras, scheduled for March 1, 2025.
"There has never been a better time to sail Celebrity Cruises from Port Tampa Bay. We are excited for Celebrity's new offerings and our continued successful partnership," said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO. "Celebrity Constellation is a beautiful ship that provides travelers with an unforgettable cruise experience, all the while being located just steps from Tampa's top attractions."
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Carnival Announces 2025-26 Deployment With New Sailings from Galveston
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In the spirit of planning ahead, Carnival Cruise Line begins opening its 2025-26 deployment with new sailings from Galveston available for booking today. Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, and the newest ship in the fleet, which is set to debut later this year, Carnival Jubilee are now available for sale with sailings through April 2026.
 “Galveston is one of our most popular homeports, and the addition of Carnival Jubilee brings not only an all-new cruise experience and increased capacity – it also gives us the opportunity to freshen our offerings for the other popular ships homeported there, Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze,” said Fred Stein, Carnival’s vice president of revenue planning and deployment. “Building on our strong portfolio of options out of Texas will give our guests in that region great new options as they look ahead and plan for their future vacations.”
The new sailings feature a wide range of itineraries of four-, five-, six-, seven- and eight-day sailings. The following is a sampling of what each ship will offer beginning in May 2025:
Carnival Jubilee
Week-long sailings aboard Carnival’s next new ship, Carnival Jubilee, are now open and feature itineraries that visit the three popular Western Caribbean of Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. These destinations offer guests the opportunity to experience sun-drenched beaches and turquoise blue water surrounded by lush vegetation and exotic wildlife. Shore excursions in this region, from touring the ancient city of Tulum near Cozumel to snorkeling in Costa Maya, offer something for everyone.
Carnival Dream
New sailings open for Carnival Dream include six- and eight-day itineraries, Six-day cruises visit Western Caribbean destinations, including Belize; Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Eight-day cruises bring guests to Eastern Caribbean destinations and include a visit to Key West and three stops in The Bahamas: Nassau, Freeport and Half Moon Cay.
Carnival Breeze
An array of four- and five-day cruise options are now available aboard Carnival Breeze, which will bring guests from Galveston to Mexico. On all its sailings, the ship will visit Cozumel, which is one of Carnival’s most popular destinations. Five-day itineraries add Progreso as a second port of call.
Additional 2025-26 itineraries from other Carnival homeports will be announced in the coming weeks.
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Viking's Newest Nile River Ship Named in Aswan
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Viking today named its newest river ship, the Viking Aton, with a special celebration in Aswan, Egypt. The ship's ceremonial godfather, Richard Riveire, designer of Viking's award-winning river, ocean and expedition vessels and founding Principal of internationally acclaimed interior design firm Rottet Studio, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—an evolution of the naval tradition dating back to thousands of years. The Viking Aton, an identical sister ship of the Viking Osiris, is a state-of-the-art vessel specifically built to navigate the Nile and will sail Viking's popular Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
 "Today, we are pleased to welcome Viking Aton to our growing fleet. Together with her sister ship, the Viking Osiris, they are the newest and most elegant vessels on the Nile, by far," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "With extraordinarily strong interest in Egypt among our guests, we are proud to bring another state-of-the-art vessel to this region, and we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the country's rich cultural treasures. I am also thankful to my friend, Richard Riveire, for his tremendous contributions to Viking, including the design of this new vessel and our other award-winning river, ocean and expedition ships."
"It is an incredible honor to be the godfather of the Viking Aton and to celebrate the growing Viking fleet," said Richard Riveire. "For well over a decade, I have been proud to work alongside Tor, Karine and the Viking team to help design how the Viking brand comes to life on board. Together, we share the belief that the design of each Viking ship should showcase the destination, wherever you may be in the world."
Richard Riveire, Godfather of the Viking Aton
Richard Riveire, AIA, NCARB, IIDA is one of the founding Principals of internationally acclaimed interior architecture and design firm Rottet Studio. He is widely recognized for creating dynamic, groundbreaking interiors focused on human comfort and visual inspiration. During his 30-plus-year career, he has received numerous design excellence awards from organizations including American Institute of Architects, Interior Design Magazine and the International Interior Design Association. He has also overseen many high-profile projects focusing on hospitality and entertainment including Presidential Bungalows at The Beverly Hills Hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Residences at LA Live among others.
The Viking Aton & Viking's Growing Egypt Fleet
Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new Viking Aton is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The Viking Aton is the identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, which was named in 2022 by Viking's first ceremonial godfather, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon. The sister ships feature several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. The Viking Aton joins Viking's growing fleet built specifically for the Nile. In addition to the Viking Aton and the Viking Osiris, identical sister ships the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek, are under construction and will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Additional ships in the Egypt fleet currently include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares; by 2025, Viking will have six ships sailing the Nile River.
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Royal Caribbean Celebrates Alaska Culture With New “locals Onboard” Program
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Royal Caribbean International is featuring local Alaska artists across its Alaska cruises as part of a new “Locals Onboard” program presented by Voyij.com. The program illustrates the cruise line’s SEA the Future commitment to energize local communities by helping connect local business owners and artists with vacationers on immersive experiences that bring to life the beauty and culture of the state.
 Throughout this Alaska season, artists join a lineup of sailings to bring to life small group experiences on board for travelers to meet and engage with Alaskans. Participating local artists lead guests through unique programming, including photography workshops, Alaska Native culture and dance, watercolor sessions, storytelling and more.
“We are excited to share the cultural wealth of our great state onboard these sailings,” said Olivia Klupar, CEO, Voyij.com. “This exclusive collaboration with Royal Caribbean entertainment reflects the cruise line’s commitment to providing guests with authentic and culturally rich experiences in the beautiful State of Alaska.”
The immersive program showcases 16 talented artists and local business owners from six southeast and southcentral Alaska communities (Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Haines, Sitka and Seward). In total, the program features 52 unique experiences, including:
• A Brief Introduction to Indigenous Southeast Alaska: Vacationers discover the historical indigenous way of life in Ketchikan, exploring tribal artifacts, cedar weaving, the art of totem carving and traditional fishing methods.
• Painting the Wild: Travelers explore artwork and inspiration from the coastal fjords of Alaska's Glacier Bay.
• Harvesting Wild Plants in the Northern Lynn Canal: Guests are introduced to foraging local plants sustainably with an opportunity to create sugar scrubs using wild flora and glacial silt harvested in the Northern Lynn Canal.
“We are immensely grateful to the Alaskans who have joined us in sharing their stories and art,” said Nick Weir, senior vice president, Entertainment, Royal Caribbean International. “Our guests are eager to experience the local art and culture firsthand. Connecting them to artists who can share their talent and personal stories complements their onshore adventures and strengthens their connections with the destinations we visit. Our enrichment program has become hugely successful, and it is one of the things that I am most proud of since joining Royal Caribbean.”
Skagway-based artist Stephanie Ryan described the event as heartwarming. “I had three women who pulled their chairs right up to the front so they could see everything on my table while I was presenting. And they were able to ask me questions and chat when there was an opportunity. It was very heartwarming, and they also felt comfortable enough to chat about their own experiences and artwork.”
This exciting partnership seeks to enrich travel experiences by offering vacationers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in Alaska's authentic culture and community. The collaboration is indicative of the cruise line and its parent company, Royal Caribbean Group’s, commitment to SEA the Future, which celebrates and spotlights local cultures in meaningful ways to energize and support the communities they visit.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.71 |
- 6.65% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
99.27 |
- 4.32% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
17.01 |
- 4.44% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
If you were departing on a transatlantic crossing from Pier 90 in New York City in the early 1950's, what shipping company would you most likely have been traveling on?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What was the name of the first ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line (then called Norwegian Caribbean)?
Answer - IThe first ship in the NCL (Norwegian Caribbean Line) fleet was the Sunward...not to be confused with the Sunward II.
courtesy of Carlos Ortega, Miami, Florida
Cruise News - August 14, 2023
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Silversea's Silver Nova Departs on Her Maiden Voyage
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The first Nova-class ship for Silversea, Silver Nova?, embarks on her maiden voyage on August 14, departing Venice, Italy. Sailing on a seven-day roundtrip voyage through the Adriatic, Silver Nova will call in Piran, Slovenia; Zadar, Dubrovnik, Split, and Rovinj in Croatia; and Kotor, Montenegro. One of the most environmentally conscious ultra-luxury cruise ships ever built, Silver Nova is Silversea's 12th ship and the first to launch this year for Royal Caribbean Group NYSE: RCL), becoming the 64th ship in its global fleet. Prior to her departure, executives from Royal Caribbean Group and Silversea hosted a three-day architectural preview for select travel partners and members of the press, sailing roundtrip from Venice.
 "Silver Nova revolutionizes ultra-luxury cruising and sets the new category standard," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "From her innovative horizontal design to her emphasis on sustainable operations, Silver Nova speaks to Royal Caribbean Group's commitment to deliver the world's best vacations, responsibly."
"It was incredibly emotional to welcome guests aboard Silver Nova ahead of her maiden voyage," said Barbara Muckermann, president, Silversea Cruises. "Benefiting from an innovative asymmetrical design, she immerses guests into the destination at every turn — a strong expression of our brand mission. As one of the most spacious ships at sea, and with the broadest array of bars, lounges, and restaurants in ultra-luxury cruise travel, Silver Nova elevates the experience for our guests like never before. I would like to thank Jason Liberty, and all involved at Silversea, Royal Caribbean Group, and Meyer Werft. A special thank you to the Royal Caribbean Group Newbuild team, without whom this would not have been possible, and to Silver Nova's amazing crew, led by Captain Mino Pontillo, for their precious support in launching this game-changing ship."
AN ENTIRELY NEW TAKE ON LUXURY AT SEA
Silver Nova introduces an entirely new take on luxury at sea. Her innovative design, which prizes openness over symmetry and incorporates an unprecedented use of approximately 4,000m2 of glass, immerses guests into the destination from virtually all venues and suites, with far-reaching views at every turn. Her reimagined pool deck, which overlooks the water on her starboard side, and all-new outdoor venues — the Dusk Bar and the Marquee — best exemplify her unique openness to the destination.
One of the most spacious cruise ships ever built, Silver Nova has a space-to-guest ratio of 75 GRT-per-guest — the highest in Silversea's fleet. She offers one of the most personalized levels of service at sea with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3, including butler service for all suites. Silver Nova hosts up to 728 guests in 13 different suite categories — the largest variety of suites in Silversea's history, and among the most spacious accommodations of any cruise ship. Every suite offers guests the use of a private veranda. The largest option is the new 123m2 (1,324ft2) Otium Suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing 270-degree views from the ship's premium aft-corner position. It also features a 40m2 (431ft2) balcony with its own whirlpool.
Further enriching the on-board experience are the largest selection of bars, restaurants, and lounges in ultra-luxury cruising; Otium, the cruise line's Roman-inspired wellness program, complete with all-new enhancements; and its innovative culinary program, Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.), which comprises an on-board ecosystem of culinary discovery, immersive excursions ashore, food lectures, hands-on culinary experiences, and more.
Following her maiden voyage, Silver Nova will spend the summer in the Mediterranean before heading to the Caribbean and South America in November. On January 4, 2024, she will embark on the 71-day Grand Voyage South America, visiting 38 destinations in 18 countries.
Silver Nova's sister ship, Silver Ray?, is scheduled to launch in summer 2024.
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Norwegian Viva Debuts in Europe and Welcomes First Guests Aboard
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, with a 56-year history of breaking boundaries, today welcomed the very first guests to sail aboard the all-new Norwegian Viva, the Company's highly anticipated new ship and second of the Prima Class, as it embarked on its maiden voyage from Venice (Trieste), Italy.
Making a grand debut in Europe today, Norwegian Viva departed for its first spectacular nine-day journey through the Mediterranean, taking guests from Venice (Trieste), Italy to Lisbon, Portugal with stops in some of Europe's most incredible seaside destinations including Salerno, off Italy's picturesque Amalfi Coast; Cannes along France's stunning Cote d'Azur; and Ibiza, Spain in the Balearic Islands, among other superb destinations. Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December for a season in the Caribbean.
 "This summer, our guests will have the opportunity to explore Europe aboard our newest magnificent vessel, Norwegian Viva, while enjoying its well-appointed spacious design, elevated experiences, expansive culinary offerings and signature Norwegian Cruise Line hospitality provided by the best crew in the industry," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Norwegian Viva's tagline is 'Live it Up,' and I have no doubt our guests will be doing just that while they cruise to some of the liveliest cities in Europe and the Caribbean during the ship's inaugural season."
Mirroring the design of the award-winning sister ship Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva features standout onboard experiences including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack; Indulge Food Hall, an upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar.
Norwegian Viva's upscale and spacious design is elevated by an expansive array of artwork across the ship, including The Concourse, a multi-million-dollar outdoor sculpture garden, and a dynamic, interactive 52-foot-wide art piece by contemporary British digital artist Dominic Harris. Exclusively created for Norwegian Viva, Harris' "Every Wing Has a Silver Lining" digital art piece is on display at Metropolitan Bar and dynamically responds throughout the day to passing movement, creating engagement with the viewer. Norwegian Viva also features a world-class entertainment lineup, headlined by the side-splitting Tony Award-nominated comedy "Beetlejuice The Musical" and the iconic game show "Press Your Luck LIVE," an immersive experience where the audience participates to win incredible grand prizes.
Following the ship's maiden voyage, Norwegian Viva will sail a series of Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, before its official Christening ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023. Luis Fonsi, Latin GRAMMY award-winning artist and godfather to Norwegian Viva, will attend the celebration to officially name the ship and will be joined by The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live" cast member and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez; and singer Pedro Capó. The ship will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico for a season of Caribbean voyages from December 2023 through March 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John's, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
In May 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to Europe, where its Mediterranean itineraries offer an unmatched opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Europe. With an average of 10.5 hours in port, travelers will have more time to explore with fewer days at sea. Guests can unpack once, all while enjoying the ease and comfort of their world-class travel accommodations and the ability to wake up in a new destination as the ship transports them from one spectacular European city to another.
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Celebrity Announces New Itineraries Bringing Four Ships to Three Florida Ports
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Celebrity Cruises unveiled all-new Caribbean offerings for the Winter 2024-2025 season on board four stellar ships – Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Equinox, and Celebrity Summit. Embarking from three Florida ports: Central Florida's Port Canaveral, West Florida's Port Tampa Bay, and South Florida's Port Everglades, travelers will enjoy more than 40 new itineraries, all open for booking on August 22, 2023. Catering to the diverse needs of today's consumer, the new program offers a wide range of experiences, from rejuvenating quick getaways to weekly 7-night cruises, and up to 9-night escapes. Transporting guests to tropical hotspots from Belize and Bimini to Grand Cayman and San Juan, a select number of itineraries also offer the opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.
"We are so excited to unveil this new program. It provides our guests with more options to experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean, which is elevated by our personalized experiences on board," says Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. "As part of this expansion, we are thrilled to add Port Canaveral to our list of home ports – it is a perfect market to reach a wide mix of both in- and out-of-state travelers looking for fun in the Caribbean sun."
More Opportunities to Sail from South Florida and Visit Perfect Day at CocoCay
As part of the new program, Celebrity will expand its offerings from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades, to include more opportunities to set sail on two award-winning ships: Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Summit. From October 23, 2024, to March 8, 2025, travelers can enjoy five new sailings on Apex, ranging from 6- to 7-night itineraries visiting destinations like St. Maarten, San Juan, Grand Cayman, and Mexico, as well as select sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay.
A vibrant private island paradise nestled in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers the best of beach-side bliss and sun-soaked excitement. With something for everyone, guests can enjoy miles of pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, take a dip in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and swim up to the bar for a refreshing tropical cocktail. Plus, guests can experience the ultimate in relaxation and privacy at Coco Beach Club that features a heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, 20 exclusive overwater cabanas, and more. Debuting in January 2024, Perfect Day at CocoCay will introduce Hideaway Beach – an adults-only paradise, with private cabanas and a new signature food outlet.
Additionally, from February 25, 2025, to April 10, 2025, Summit will offer five new itineraries ranging from 5- to 9-night across the Western and Eastern Caribbean.
"As one of Celebrity Cruises' homeports, we are excited about the new sailings on Apex and Summit. In addition to the line's 'resort at sea' experience, their cruise guests can expect to experience unrivalled customer service and ease of sailing at Port Everglades," said Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Jonathan Daniels.
Celebrity Comes to Port Canaveral
For the first time ever, Celebrity Cruises will sail out of Orlando's Port Canaveral with 20 new itineraries, from November 21, 2024, to April 19, 2025, on board the intimate Celebrity Equinox. With most itineraries spanning 7-nights, travelers will have the opportunity to visit highly sought-after Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, Belize, Grand Cayman, Mexico, San Juan, and St. Maarten. Just in time for the Spring Break season, two sailings on March 1st and March 15th, 2025, will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.
"We are thrilled to welcome Celebrity Cruises as our new partner and honored to be part of their Caribbean expansion plans," said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. "The demand for Celebrity Cruise sailings from our Port has been growing. Now, with Celebrity Equinox homeported here, there are great opportunities for even more cruise travelers to experience the cruise line's high-quality experience, while experiencing the comfort and ease of travel provided by our Port."
Refreshed Caribbean Offerings from Port Tampa Bay
Celebrity Cruises will revamp its current Caribbean program out of Port Tampa Bay. Guests can now enjoy more frequent opportunities to set sail with 6- to 7-night cruises on board Celebrity Constellation. The new program expands the brand's offerings with four new itineraries and a total of 14 sailings for the season from January 2, 2025, to April 6, 2025. These itineraries will visit destinations like Belize, Honduras, Key West, Mexico, and New Orleans during Mardi Gras, scheduled for March 1, 2025.
"There has never been a better time to sail Celebrity Cruises from Port Tampa Bay. We are excited for Celebrity's new offerings and our continued successful partnership," said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO. "Celebrity Constellation is a beautiful ship that provides travelers with an unforgettable cruise experience, all the while being located just steps from Tampa's top attractions."
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Carnival Introduces Carnival Jubilee’s Senior Officers
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With her arrival just months away, Carnival Cruise Line today named the senior officers at the helm of its newest ship, Carnival Jubilee. The ship is being built at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany and will operate its first cruise from its homeport of Galveston, Tex. on Dec. 23, 2023. Carnival has appointed Captain Andrea Catalani, Chief Engineer Vittorino Perasole and Hotel Director Pierre Camilleri as the ship’s senior officers.
“These accomplished senior officers have combined nearly 70 years of experience and will serve as knowledgeable and inspirational leaders to our more than 1,700 team members on Carnival Jubilee,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “They will also ensure that our guests are very well taken care of.”
Carnival Jubilee’s arrival will be the second time Captain Catalani leads a team in Galveston. He served as captain on Carnival Vista when the ship began to homeport there in 2018, and now he is proud to lead the way for a new ship’s debut in Texas.
“I feel honored and privileged for leading such a great team of professionals on Carnival Jubilee, which will soon be the most innovative Carnival ship deployed to Galveston,” said Catalani. “This is a great professional accomplishment for the entire team. We are counting the days until we take delivery and can bring this beautiful new ship to our guests in Galveston.”
Senior Officers
Captain Andrea Catalani: Originally from Corinaldo, Italy, Catalani began working for Carnival in 1999 and brings nearly 24 years of experience to the helm of Carnival Jubilee. He has worked on 18 Carnival ships, including Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Horizon, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, as well as leading the Carnival Vista inaugural team.
Chief Engineer Vittorino Perasole: Starting with Carnival as a third engineer in 1998, Perasole quickly moved his way up, leading several teams as chief engineer since 2014. He is originally from Torre del Greco, Italy, and has worked on Carnival Dream, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Breeze and Carnival Celebration.
Hotel Director Pierre Camilleri: Now in his 19th year with Carnival, Camilleri joined the company in 2004 as hotel director after managing a variety of hotel and resort properties in his native Malta, as well as Europe and Asia. He has served as hotel director on several Carnival ships and has been part of the inaugural teams for Carnival Breeze, Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration.
Carnival Jubilee joins her sisters Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras as the third ship in the fleet powered by a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system. Carnival Jubilee will debut unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones, Currents and The Shores. The ship will be home to other features already popular on board her sister ships, like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster and a transformational three-deck atrium that offers expansive views during the day and doubles as an entertainment venue at night with movable LED screens and theatrical lighting.
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Cunard Announces Exclusive Partnership with Two Michelin-starred Chef Michel Roux
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Cunard has announced an exclusive partnership with two Michelin-starred chef, Michel Roux.
Michel Roux will be working alongside Cunard's culinary development chefs to create an exclusive gala menu for the Queens Grill restaurant on the line's new ship Queen Anne, plus a new menu for Cunard's fleet-wide pub, the Golden Lion.
Cunard reveals four additional dining experiences that will be available on their new ship Queen Anne.
 The new pub menu, currently in development, will feature a selection of guest favorites, reimagined by chef Michel. It will launch on board Queen Anne in May 2024, before being rolled out to the existing fleet later in the year.
Cunard has also revealed four additional dining experiences that will be available on Queen Anne – Aji Wa, Aranya, Sir Samuels, and Tramonto – offering guests more choice than ever before.
Three of these original venues aboard the luxury cruise line's newest ship will be alternative evening dining options, available as a supplement, complementing the inclusive fare options offered for lunch or dinner in Tramonto and the Golden Lion pub.
A brand-new concept for Cunard, Aji Wa will feature creative Japanese cuisine influenced by the seasons of the year, featuring sushi and an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner, with an additional option to participate in a special Omikase "chef's choice" tasting menu in the evening.
In another new taste direction for Cunard, Aranya takes guests on a journey through the rich spice flavors of India with menus curated by experts in their field. It's a multi-sensory experience, from the vibrancy of the flavors to the luxurious interiors which includes stunning floor-to-ceiling windows for magnificent views while dining.
The epitome of a high-end steakhouse, Sir Samuels will showcase the very best of British and Australian beef and seafood, complemented by an exceptional wine program. Selected for their provenance, steaks will be of the highest quality and seared to perfection. Alongside a vast array of beef options, there will also be a wide range of fish and seafood dishes. All the produce has been sourced responsibly to bring the freshest ingredients to the table.
Tramonto will transport guests to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, with a menu full of fresh flavors and an opportunity for guests to dine alfresco while watching the sun set on a warm summer evening.
Guests will also have exclusive use of dining appropriate to their stateroom type, from the grand two-tiered Britannia restaurant, the largest Britannia Club restaurant in the fleet, to the opulent settings of the Princess Grill and Queens Grill Restaurants.
"We're excited to share a flavor of what will be served on board Queen Anne in 2024," said Matt Gleaves, VP, Commercial, Cunard North America. "Cunard is renowned for high quality dining options, and we're delighted to be working with the very best chefs, at the top of their different culinary fields, to offer such a wide range of dining options to our guests. From embracing the best of Japan in our new sushi and sake bar to dining alfresco in Tramonto, or enjoying a pub meal in the Golden Lion, there really will be something for everyone."
Michel Roux added: "It is an absolute privilege to be working with Cunard's hugely talented and passionate culinary development chefs as we countdown to the launch of their newest ship Queen Anne. For me, there is no better recipe than blending high quality ingredients with elegant execution to create unforgettable experiences for diners, and I am incredibly excited to showcase our elevated, reimagined pub classics to Cunard guests very soon."
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
16.83 |
- 6.71% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
103.75 |
- 3.99% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
17.80 |
- 3.68% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the name of the first ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line (then called Norwegian Caribbean)?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which was the first cruise/passenger ship to have fin stabilizers?
Answer - It was Cunard Line's MEDIA, built in 1948....but the stabilizers were added later.
courtesy of Nick Williams, New York City
Cruise News - August 7, 2023
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NCL Welcomes Norwegian Viva to FLeet
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Norwegian Cruise Line today took delivery of Norwegian Viva, the newest vessel in the now 19-ship fleet and the second ship in the revolutionary Prima Class, at the renowned Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.
The milestone event marks the arrival of the second of six ships in the Prima Class set to debut through 2028. Following the launch of the award-winning Norwegian Prima in 2022, Norwegian Viva will continue to raise the bar on cruising. The ship’s tagline “Live it Up” embodies the enhanced guest experience and on-board characteristic of this pioneering class, including elevated offerings, more spacious designs, thrilling onboard activities such as the three-story Viva Speedway, and new dining concepts, most notably Indulge Food Hall—an open-air food market featuring 11 unique eateries.
“Ships as stellar as those of the Prima Class are only possible in collaboration with an incredible shipyard like Fincantieri,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Delivery marks an important milestone for Norwegian Viva, and we are beyond excited to bring this spectacular ship to life as we welcome guests aboard next week.”
While the ship boasts many of the highlights that are central to the Prima Class, unique to Norwegian Viva is the at-sea debut of Tony Award®-nominated production, “Beetlejuice,” where guests can "Live it Up" with the undead during a musical adaptation of Tim Burton’s 1988 film of the same name. Additional evening entertainment programming includes Press Your Luck Live—an immersive game show experience pulled straight from the television screen, offering audience members a chance to participate in the classic game and win prizes.
At 965 feet long, 143,535 gross tons and with the capacity for 3,100 guests, Norwegian Viva also features The Concourse, an outdoor sculpture garden in Ocean Boulevard, the wrap-around boardwalk bringing guests closer to the water than ever before. Reimagined for Norwegian Viva, the area will include work from six artists that have been featured on previous Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. ships: Kevin Box, Jonathan Prince, Arik Levy, Richard Hudson, Sophie Elizabeth Thompson, and Pablo Atchugarry. A new art addition will be included at Metropolitan Bar, the ship’s exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, “Every Wing has a Silver Lining,” a 52-foot-long interactive work of art designed exclusively for Norwegian Viva by contemporary British digital artist Dominic Harris.
“Norwegian Viva is a testament to our wonderful partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri. “We are proud to play a role in the innovative Prima Class and look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come with the next four highly anticipated Prima Class ships.”
Following the ship’s maiden voyage on Aug.10 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a series of Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, before her official Christening ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023. Luis Fonsi, Latin GRAMMY award-winning artist and godfather to Norwegian Viva, will attend the celebration to officially name the ship and will be joined by The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez; and singer Pedro Capó. The ship will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico for a season of Caribbean voyages from December 2023 through March 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
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Carnival’s Mardi Gras Crew Rescues Couple in Distress at Sea
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Carnival Cruise Line’s crew aboard Mardi Gras answered a call from the U.S. Coast Guard to rescue a couple from a sailboat early Monday morning.
 The couple was stranded about 20 nautical miles from Castle Island, Bahamas, and Mardi Gras was less than nine miles from them when the Coast Guard’s call was received by the ship’s officers.
As the ship’s team approached the sailboat, a lifeboat was lowered from Mardi Gras to make the rescue just after 1 a.m. Monday.
Once on board, the man was admitted to the onboard medical center and the team is caring for him.
Mardi Gras is operating an eight-day Caribbean sailing that departed from Port Canaveral, Fla.
The ship is continuing its planned itinerary and will arrive to Aruba on Tuesday.
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Embrace the Adventurous Side in South America & Antarctica with the 2024-2025 Princess Cruises Season
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As a growing number of travelers mull the allure of Antarctica, Princess Cruises today unveiled four exciting voyages planned for the Seventh Continent for the 2024-2025 season.
In 2024-25 Sapphire Princess will again sail guests to some of the world's most dramatically diverse landscapes with the opportunity to get swept away by the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica, the charm of the Falkland Islands' penguins and incredible vistas of Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound and Gerlache Strait. As the top-rated large ship cruise line in the region, only Princess offers guests an up-close look at the wonders of the white continent while enjoying large ship comfort and small ship personalization at a fraction of the price of explorer ships.
 Princess is a member of the prestigious International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, placing a priority on environmental responsibility and safe travel at the forefront of every voyage.
As a symbol of large ship exploration, Sapphire Princess will also embark on a series of South American itineraries, joined by Majestic Princess to offer an enchanting fusion of exotic cultures and landscapes combined with exciting cruisetours.
With two ships, 26 destinations and 14 countries, the 2024-2025 season includes 15 total departures on 11 unique itineraries. New this season is a 17-day Antarctica voyage sailing roundtrip from Buenos Aires, featuring an overnight in this vibrant homeport. In addition, for guests looking for the ultimate exploration, a 51-day South America Grand Adventure awaits sailing on Majestic Princess between Los Angeles and Ft. Lauderdale, highlighted with overnight stays in Lima, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.
"No other large ship cruise line sails Antarctica like Princess," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "Our master navigators, unique local relationships and outstanding amenities make accessing these exotic destinations not only immersive but amazingly comfortable."
There are numerous advantages to visiting Antarctica and South America with Princess.
• Expert navigation accessing some of the most dynamic environments on the planet.
• Incredible up-close views of icebergs, glaciers, whales and penguins.
• Onboard experts, naturalists, historians and storytellers with captivating stories and curated activities.
• Infused local culture with Argentine folkloric musicians, regional cuisine and wines, and local dancers and samba classes from the famed Carnival festival.
• More itineraries, more voyage length options and more departure dates than any other large ship cruise line.
NEW! Antarctica – 17 Days – Four Voyages, Roundtrip from Buenos Aires: Featuring four days of cruising the Antarctica region with views of Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound and Gerlache Strait
Sapphire Princess, December 1, 18, 2024 and January 4, 20, 2025: Sails from Buenos Aires (overnight) to Punta Arenas, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Cape Horn scenic cruising, Antarctic Peninsula scenic cruising (Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, Deception Island, Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel, South Shetland Islands and Admiralty Bay), Falkland Islands (Stanley), Montevideo and arrive back in Buenos Aires.
Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan – 14 or 15 Days – Four Voyages
Majestic Princess, December 19, 2024: Santiago, Puerto Montt, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Cape Horn scenic cruising, Falkland Islands (Stanley), Puerto Madryn, Montevideo, arrive in Buenos Aires (overnight).
Sapphire Princess, February 7 and 21 (reverse itinerary), 2024 and March 7, 2025: Depart from Buenos Aires (overnight), Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands (Stanley), Cape Horn scenic cruising, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Punta Arenas, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Puerto Montt and arrive in Santiago.
Andes & South America – 18 Days – Two Voyages
Majestic Princess, December 1, 2024: Depart Los Angeles and sail to Puerto Vallarta, Fuerte Amador, Lima (overnight), Pisco (General San Martin), La Serena (Coquimbo) and arrive in Santiago.
Sapphire Princess, March 21, 2025: Depart Santiago with visits to La Serena, Pisco, Lima (overnight), Manta, Costa Rica, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Los Angeles.
Brazilian Adventure – 18 Days – Two Voyages
Sapphire Princess, November 13, 2024: Depart from Ft. Lauderdale to St. Kitts, Fortaleza, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Montevideo and arrive in Buenos Aires (overnight).
Majestic Princess, January 3, 2025 – Sails from Buenos Aires to Santos, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Fortaleza, Dominica, St. Kitts arrive in Ft. Lauderdale.
Grand Adventures – 32-51 Days – Five Voyages
Andes & Cape Horn Grand Adventure (33 days), Majestic Princess, December 1, 2024: Sail from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta, Fuerte Amador, Lima (overnight), Pisco, La Serena, Santiago, Puerto Montt, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Cape Horn scenic cruising, Falkland Islands, Puerto Madryn, Montevideo and arrive Buenos Aires.
Andes & Cape Horn Grand Adventure (32 Days), Sapphire Princess, March 7, 2025: Depart Buenos Aires (overnight) to Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands, Cape Horn scenic cruising, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Puerto Montt, Santiago, La Serena, Pisco, Lima (overnight), Manta, Costa Rica, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and arrive Los Angeles.
Brazilian and Cape Horn Grand Adventure (33 days), Majestic Princess, December 19, 2025: Santiago, Puerto Montt, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Cape Horn scenic cruising, Falkland Islands, Puerto Madryn, Montevideo and arrive Buenos Aires, Santos, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Fortaleza, Dominica, St. Kitts arrive in Ft. Lauderdale.
Antarctica & Brazilian Grand Adventure (35 days), Sapphire Princess, November 13, 2024: Ft. Lauderdale to St. Kitts, Fortaleza, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Montevideo and arrive in Buenos Aires (overnight), Punta Arenas, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Cape Horn scenic cruising, Antarctic Peninsula scenic cruising (Elephant Island, Antarctic Sound, Deception Island, Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel, South Shetland Islands and Admiralty Bay), Falkland Islands (Stanley), Montevideo and arrive back in Buenos Aires.
South America Grand Adventure (51 days), Majestic Princess, December 1, 2024: Depart Los Angeles and sail to Puerto Vallarta, Fuerte Amador, Lima (overnight), Pisco (General San Martin), La Serena (Coquimbo), Santiago, Puerto Montt, Amalia Glacier scenic cruising, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Cape Horn scenic cruising, Falkland Islands, Puerto Madryn, Montevideo, Buenos Aires (overnight), Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Fortaleza, Dominica, St. Kitts arrive in Ft. Lauderdale.
For guests wishing to combine a land tour before or after their cruise visiting sought-after UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Princess offers two cruisetours for South America:
Iguazú Falls Adventure – features the thundering Iguazú Falls – the largest waterfall system in the world - as well as a visit to Rio de Janeiro.
Machu Picchu Explorer – travel via train through vibrantly green winding valleys to the ancient Inca compound, Machu Picchu, plus a tour of the historic city of Cusco.
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From Brother Captains to Godmother Sisters: It's a Family Affair on the Upcoming Celebrity Ascent
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Celebrity Cruises, the award-winning premium cruise line pioneering resort travel at sea, is thrilled to unveil the Godmothers for Celebrity Ascent, launching this November. Today, Celebrity Cruises announces that Captain Sandy Yawn, best known for her appearance on Bravo TV's hit series, Below Deck, alongside her sister Michelle Dunham, founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA), have been selected as co-Godmothers of the upcoming ship. The sisters will now join the industry's first brother Captains, Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis, who were announced earlier this year as the chosen duo to jointly take helm of the new vessel.
 Captain Sandy and Michelle will now join an illustrious group of admired, purposeful and inspirational women who hold the role of Godmother for a Celebrity Cruises ship. Godmothers of the previous Edge® Series ships include Simone Biles, 19-time World Champion and seven-time Olympic Medalist who christened the most recent ship, Celebrity Beyond, in 2022; Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of international nonprofit Girls Who Code who named Celebrity Apex in 2021; and Malala Yousafzai, Nobel laureate and activist, who introduced the revolutionary ship class when Edge launched in 2018.
"We are honored to have Captain Sandy and her sister Michelle join the legacy of Celebrity's Godmothers, as they are both inspirational women who have dedicated their lives to making a positive impact in the world," says Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises' President. "Captain Sandy's life story is one of resilience, leadership and strength, as a pioneer in the maritime industry and as an inspirational role model for young women. Her sister Michelle is a tireless advocate for children with autism and shows us what is possible when you follow your vision for a better world. Both women live by Celebrity's values, and we have no doubt they are the perfect choices for Ascent."
One of the most time-honored traditions at sea, the Godmother is the spiritual embodiment of a vessel - she is the woman who inspires, protects and positively impacts the lives of everyone who sails onboard. During Ascent's official naming ceremony on December 1, 2023, both sisters will bless and christen the ship, bringing good luck and protection for the crew and all passengers onboard.
About Captain Sandy Yawn:
Captain Sandy is the embodiment of resilience, surviving a life-threatening accident, cancer and struggles with addiction before launching her career in the yacht industry. Her unwavering integrity and courage have earned her an outstanding reputation, and her remarkable leadership and bravery during a catastrophic fire and pirate threat off the coast of Yemen, led to her receiving the prestigious Distinguished Crew Award from the International Superyacht Society in 2006.
As a best-selling author and motivational speaker, she is passionate about sharing her life stories to inspire others in overcoming obstacles and pursuing their dreams. Beyond her successful yachting career, she actively contributes to philanthropy, ocean advocacy, and children's education, showcasing her commitment to creating a positive impact on society.
"As I embark on this remarkable journey as a co-godmother of the Celebrity Ascent, I am deeply honored to represent not only the spirit of leadership but also the strength of women empowerment," says Captain Sandy Yawn. "This role serves as a reminder that women can steer their destinies with grace and determination, commanding the seas of possibility and inspiring others to follow their own paths with courage and conviction. I am so honored that my sister and I can share this distinction. She has always been my biggest inspiration in her selfless pursuit to help my nephew and other families impacted by autism."
About Michelle Dunham:
Michelle Dunham is the co-founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA), alongside her husband Mark. Michelle developed the model for JSA to give her son, Nicholas, the best opportunity to learn. Established in 2005, JSA is a not-for-profit private school as a full-service K-12 educational center for students and young adults with autism spectrum disorders, with a focus on whole child development and individualized programs that encourage both family and community involvement. JSA is as unique in its approach as the children they serve. Interwoven into the very fabric of what their program stands for is the necessity for each student to develop independence while improving the quality of their lives. Removing the layers of isolation, they are creating an inclusive environment for each student to be themselves in order to educate, engage and inspire. In March of 2020, JSA relocated to an expansive campus that embraces the lush landscape and provides both the staff and students with frequent opportunities for engagement with the outdoors and the introduction of a vocational gardening program.
"It fills my heart with immense pride to stand as co-godmother of the Celebrity Ascent, alongside my sister, Captain Sandy Yawn. As we embark on this journey, much like Celebrity Cruise's commitment to delivering exceptional vacations and enriching lives, we embrace the same spirit of compassion and positive change," says Michelle Dunham. "Together, we aspire to elevate lives, create boundless possibilities, and set sail towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all who grace our path through the charities we founded, Jacksonville School for Autism and Captain Sandy's Charities."
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Oceania Cruises Offers a Taste of the Tropics with a Collection of Voyages Sailing the Exotic Caribbean and Tahiti
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Oceania Cruises announced this week that it is offering a captivating array of 100 sailings in the Caribbean and Tahiti in 2024 and 2025, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travelers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to the line's small, luxurious ships. Caribbean season highlights include Castries on the island of St. Lucia; Puerto Limon in Costa Rica; Gatun Lake in Panama; and Colombia's magnificent colonial city of Cartagena. Meanwhile, the must-sees in French Polynesia include vibrant Papeete, the paradise island of Nuku Hiva, and Bora Bora, the most romantic island in the world.
Sailing from Miami, Cartagena, New York, Los Angeles, Bridgetown, Panama and Papeete, this impeccable selection of carefully crafted voyages aboard Marina, Nautica, Sirena and Oceania Cruises' new ship, Vista, is ideal for travelers who dream of sojourns in tropical archipelagos and who wish to explore colonial cities and soak up the laid-back, island atmosphere. Voyages range from seven to 16 days, sailing to iconic Caribbean destinations including Bridgetown, Cartagena, Gustavia, Puntarenas, San Juan and St. John's. Many of these voyages feature memorable daylight passages through the Panama Canal, linking sought-after Caribbean destinations with storied Pacific Riviera ports such as Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Quetzal.
 With more than 60 immersive ports of call, Oceania Cruises' carefully planned itineraries invite travelers to experience blissful escapes on delightfully less-traveled islands with the cruise line's smaller ships able to access boutique ports and yacht harbors in destinations such as Barbuda, Dominica and the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, and Moorea, Raiatea and Rangiroa in French Polynesia.
Coveted Caribbean attractions including St. Lucia's Pitons, Antigua's stunning choice of 365 white sand beaches, the blue cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and ancient sacred ruins like Chacchoben and Kohunlich from Costa Maya are on offer. Enjoy a daylight journey through the Panama Canal and visit some of Central America's most enticing destinations.
Sailing with Oceania Cruises is the most relaxing way to visit French Polynesia – an exotic utopia and haven of idyllic beauty and tranquility. From Tahiti and Bora Bora to the sapphire seas of Moorea, the line's South Pacific sojourns cover some of the most remote and gorgeous islands in the world, filled with blue lagoons, coral atolls and lingering sunsets. Carrying fewer than 700 guests, Nautica provides an intimate experience for travelers to explore the region, with 10-day itineraries designed to offer a unique flavor of this South Pacific jewel.
"At Oceania Cruises, we offer an extensive collection of destination-intensive Caribbean and Tahiti itineraries, allowing our well-traveled and curious guests to discover something new about these popular yet still relatively untouched regions," commented Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Our carefully curated, diverse range of shore excursions, combined with the relaxing home-away-from-home ambiance on board our boutique ships and The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, offers the perfect luxury vacation choice."
Caribbean Destination Highlights
On Colombia's Caribbean coast, travelers will marvel at the port city of Cartagena. By the sea is the walled Old Town, founded in the 16th century, with squares, cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Take a scenic drive through the residential area of Manga and admire the beautiful mansions and explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fort that was once the most important military structure built in Latin America. The nearby Islas del Rosario and Isla de Barú are a boat ride away offering white-sand beaches and coral reefs.
The beautiful freshwater Gatun Lake to the south of Colón has long been a favorite of eco-conscious visitors to Panama. Roughly the size of the island of Barbados, this expansive waterway was created during the construction of the Panama Canal and is now bursting with biodiversity. Wildlife such as sloths, capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas, and toucans thrive in lush pockets around the lake, and manatee sightings are common. Set off on a safari boating adventure, a canopy tour or even a kayaking adventure to take in the area's lush flora and unique fauna. Chagres National Park is also within reach, home to an indigenous Emberá tribe and their village.
Castries, the capital of St. Lucia, is known for palm-lined Vigie Beach and duty-free shopping near the harbor. Explore this lush, beautiful island, visit the historic La Toc Battery Fort, see banana plantations and watch silk screening at Bagshaws. Venture south to Soufrière at the base of the Piton peaks and see the unique gingerbread architecture of the marketplace. Or enjoy a bike ride through the rainforest to a lovely waterfall, kayak in the deep blue Caribbean, or snorkel or dive to spectacular reefs.
In the thriving capital of San Juan, abundant culture and history intersect with lush surrounding natural beauty for a wide range of adventures. The Old World comes to life at impressive fortresses and charming Old San Juan. Explore the nearby El Yunque rainforest, a national treasure teeming with tropical birds and home to stunning waterfalls. Savor the local culture with a culinary walking tour, a heritage tour of an acclaimed rum distillery or a visit to one of the museums and galleries.
Tour the beautiful island of St. Barts and marvel at its rugged coastline and unspoiled, upscale atmosphere, unique in the Caribbean for its Swedish and French heritage. Enjoy the spectacular beaches and resorts, snorkel or dive in the crystalline waters or see underwater wonders from a semi-submersible marine vessel.
Tahiti Destination Highlights
Papeete, on the island of Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia, with much to offer visitors, from the Marche de Papeete, the Robert Wan Pearl Museum and the relaxing Jardins Paofai. Enjoy observing the surfers on their longboards as well as local highlights including Faarumai Waterfalls, the Arahoho Blowhole and the Maraa Fern Grottos.
On the dreamy island of Nuku Hiva – one of the most remote islands in French Polynesia – visit the entrancing Vaipo Waterfalls and Cascade Tevaipo, one of the world's tallest falls at over 1,100 feet. Wander the black-sand beaches, marvel at the giant tiki at Piki Vehini or get adventurous on an all-terrain vehicle excursion around the craggy island.
On Tahiti's sister island of Moorea, soak in the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, from the verdant mountains to the azure seas and white-sand beaches. Enjoy a canoe ride through the crystal-clear lagoon, snorkel, scuba or helmet-dive the reefs, or immerse yourself in nature with a stunning hike up to the Afareaitu Waterfalls.
The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora. Choose from a variety of activities including a reef-ringed lagoon tour, jet ski adventures, off-road adventures and a Polynesian day with lunch on a motu – a small sand island.
Pure, pristine and dreamlike, the ecosystem of the island of Fakarava is home to extremely rare birds, plants and crustaceans. Quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming people are intertwined with a spectacular lagoon creating a paradise like none other in the world.
The South Pacific atoll of Rangiroa is a natural aquarium with its lagoon brimming with colorful marine life. Highlights include visits to pearl farms, diving with manta rays, exploring the atoll's unique winery or relaxing on a pink-sand beach.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
18.04 |
- 4.25% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
108.06 |
- 0.96% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
18.48 |
- 16.27% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which was the first cruise/passenger ship to have fin stabilizers?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
On what mass market cruise ship did former United States' President and Mrs.Carter sail on in the early 80's?
Answer - President and Mrs.Carter sailed on RCLs SOVERIEGN OF THE SEAS.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - July 31, 2023
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Crystal Cruises Returns to Service
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Today, Crystal officially relaunches under the new guardianship of A&K Travel Group, as Crystal Serenity sets sail following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. Departing on its inaugural voyage today from Marseille, the cruise line's largest vessel accommodates 740 guests and is the first of two ships returning to service this summer.
With an industry-leading space-to-guest ratio (1 to 93.1 cu. ft.) and nearly one staff member per guest, Crystal Serenity fosters endless opportunities for inspiration and enrichment, complemented by unparalleled service. Larger, redesigned suites, award-winning specialty dining restaurants and restorative public spaces further expose passengers to heightened experiences enroute to the world's most sought-after destinations around the world.
 "Crystal has been recognized for decades for exceptional experiences and we are excited to welcome guests back onboard for its new gilded era," said A&K Travel Group CEO, Cristina Levis. "In just one year, we've been able to revitalize the ships, a feat nearly unheard of in our industry. It is an honor to be signaling this new chapter better than ever and right on schedule, all while retaining 80% of Crystal's beloved crew on board."
Itineraries
After the first voyage from Marseille to Lisbon, Crystal Serenity will sail towards Northern Europe unearthing the most alluring locales including, UK, Ireland, and Iceland. The ship then travels to the Americas offering experiences as north as Canada to as south as Cartagena, Colombia, before beginning the 2024 World Cruise. Sailing from San Diego or Miami over the course of 125 nights, this highly anticipated voyage visits 29 countries and 62 breathtaking destinations and iconic landscapes.
Suites & Guest Rooms
Crystal enlisted leading cruise ship architectural firm, GEM, to guide the redesign of select guestrooms and suites. Accommodations feature neutral tones and high-end fixtures, complemented by subtle hues of pastel colors that resonate with the color of the ocean. Elevated details, contemporary craftsmanship, and artisanal finishes embody modern refinement, while the spacious layouts maximize in-room relaxation.
As part of the ship's refurbishments, there are two new guest room categories – the Jr. Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View – that serve as an option for solo travelers without the worry of paying additional single supplements. These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite category.
• Single Guest Room with Ocean View: Cozy bedroom (up to 215 sq ft) redesigned in 2023, with welcoming and comfortable detailing, butler service, and ocean views.
• Sapphire Veranda Suite: Spacious suite (up to 430 sq ft) with living area, elegant finishings and private veranda, accompanied by attentive butler service. Sapphire suites are available to book in new and classic design.
• Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite: Redesigned in 2023, this large suite (up to 645 sq ft) includes spacious rooms with separate dining and living areas looking onto a private veranda, also accompanied by attentive butler service.
Dining
With eleven distinct dining options, including 24-hour in-suite dining service, guests have access to unparalleled culinary experiences:
• Umi Uma: The return of legendary Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa's Umi Uma – the only Nobu dining concept at sea where guests can enjoy award-winning, innovative Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.
• Osteria D'Ovidio: Fine Italian cuisine, featuring original menus and dishes created by talented Crystal chefs.
• Waterside Restaurant: Crystal's main dining room features open seating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Bistro: A modern café and coffee bar with light snacks such as fresh pastries, bagels and fruit in the morning and a selection of international cheeses, pâtés, prosciutto, smoked salmon, and dessert delicacies throughout the afternoon.
• Trident Grill: Set poolside, Trident Grill features classic delights like burgers, melts, salads and more.
• Scoops Ice Cream Bar: Crystal's sumptuous desert bar features authentic Italian gelato with fresh toppings, frozen yogurt, homemade cookies and more.
• The Vintage Room: Offers intimate guided pairings and dinners highlighting the vast selection of wines in the ship's onboard cellar.
• Tastes Kitchen & Bar: Globally inspired cuisine and casual "family style" dining experience, Tastes offers tapas-style cuisine for guests to enjoy on their own or with newfound friends.
• Marketplace: A buffet style dining wrapped in floor to ceiling windows and a chic open air dining area.
Wellness
Crystal's new spa concept, Aurora, is set to be the most serene wellness destination at sea with a new design boasting light-bright neutral colors, an illuminated fiber optic starlight ceiling, organic materials and a natural salt crystal and silk brushed slate stone. The extensive treatment offerings include more signature facials, massage treatments and a full-service Salon. Highlights include:
• The Aurora LED and Cryo Facial Experience that instantly plumps and tones the skin.
• Biotec 2.0 The Ultimate Facial designed to reveal a youthful appearance after just one treatment.
• The Aurora Stone Signature Massage which incorporates hot stones for relaxed muscle.
Furthermore, Crystal recently announced the appointment of Dalila Roglieri as Head Nutritionist for the brand, rounding out the holistic wellness experience for guests.
Crystal Serenity's sister ship Crystal Symphony is currently undergoing renovations and will resume service for its inaugural voyage in Athens on Sept. 1.
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Seabourn Takes Delivery of Seabourn Pursuit
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Seabourn took delivery of its second expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, today during an official handover maritime ceremony at the T. Mariotti shipyard in Genoa, Italy. Seabourn Pursuit is the company's second purpose-built, ultra-luxury expedition ship and the newest expedition ship in the industry.
 "I am honored to share this incredible moment with the entire Seabourn family as we welcome Seabourn Pursuit, our highly anticipated second ultra-luxury expedition ship, into our fleet," expressed Natalya Leahy, Seabourn President. "With remarkable craftsmanship by the Mariotti team, an abundance of space, and the breathtaking style of Tihany Design, Seabourn Pursuit raises the bar for ultra-luxury expedition travel. We are grateful to Mariotti and Tihany Design for their expertise in shaping and making our dream come true for our guests."
Leahy added that the state-of-the-art Seabourn Pursuit will provide the perfect combination of luxury and expedition. "Seabourn Pursuit offers the best of both worlds: our well-known signature luxury and elegance with the world of exploration and adventure. The ship is masterfully designed for our guests, who are extraordinary people looking for out of the ordinary experiences. Our guests will indulge in Seabourn's ultra-luxury style and enjoy our intuitive, personalized service, while the ship takes them to awe-inspiring destinations around the world that only few will ever visit in a lifetime."
"Today, one year after the delivery of Seabourn Venture, we are very happy to have completed and delivered her sister ship, Seabourn Pursuit," said Marco Ghiglione, Managing Director of T. Mariotti. "We are truly proud to have built the most outstanding ultra-luxury expedition ship for Seabourn, one of the leading cruise lines in the luxury market. This is another important masterpiece for Italian shipbuilding coming out of T. Mariotti shipyard, demonstrating again that our leadership in this sector is well consolidated. Thanks to Seabourn, all people involved in this journey, Lloyd's Register and the pencil of Adam Tihany, here is the new expedition jewel."
Seabourn Pursuit offers the same luxurious "yacht like" small ship experience that travelers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities led by an expert 24-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. Seabourn Pursuit is designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards and will include a plethora of modern hardware and technology that will extend the ship's global deployment and capabilities. Seabourn Pursuit has close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn. Those include indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views, and a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites.
In addition, Seabourn Pursuit, like the rest of the ships in the Seabourn fleet, offers an abundance of space and elegance, eight dining facilities serving gourmet cuisine, and luxurious all-suite accommodations, including a pair of two-level Wintergarden suites.
Seabourn Pursuit is scheduled to enter service August 12, 2023, and will sail five voyages in the Mediterranean before embarking on two voyages across the Atlantic and through the Caribbean. On October 10, 2023, the ship will arrive in Barbados to begin its expedition journeys, taking guests to remote corners of the globe. Seabourn Pursuit will head south for expeditions exploring coastal South America, the Amazon, and Antarctica into late March 2024.
Following its inaugural Antarctic season, the ship will head across the islands of the South Pacific and eventually to Australia, which will be the start of the line's first exploration of the Kimberley region in the Northern Territory and Western Australia between June and August 2024. The iconic Kimberley, with its red sandstone gorges, rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and Aboriginal life and history, is the ideal setting for a truly, world-class expedition experience. In addition to the Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit will visit Papua New Guinea, West Papua, Indonesia, and sail across the South Pacific between Chile and Melanesia between March and October 2024.
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New Itineraries Highlight Princess Cruises 2025 Alaska Season
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Princess Cruises has unveiled its 2025 Alaska cruise and cruisetours season, featuring three captivating roundtrip itineraries and an exclusive new National Parks Cruisetour. These remarkable offerings are available for booking starting August 3.
New Adventures and Extended Journeys Await, including a Departure from LA:
• Majestic Princess in Alaska
• Majestic Princess in Alaska
 New for 2025 from the cruise line that brings the most guests to Alaska every year is a 22-day roundtrip voyage sailing from San Francisco on Ruby Princess that coincides with the Summer Solstice, and a 17-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle on Grand Princess featuring three days of scenic glacier viewing. For guests seeking to sail from Southern California, a new 16-day roundtrip Inside Passage voyage from Los Angeles on Grand Princess offers a convenient and affordable option.
National Parks Cruisetour
Following its debut in 2024, the National Parks Cruisetour returns in 2025 with a 15-night adventure to five of Alaska's most breathtaking parks. Guests will have the opportunity to explore Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Parks, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. Unique to Princess, this experience combines a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, scenic rail travel, and multiple days on land, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.
"As the market leader in Alaska, we're excited to offer guests even more exciting ways to see the natural beauty of Alaska with itineraries in 2025 that serve up new adventures and extended journeys that first-time guests and repeat visitors are going to find intriguing," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "We're also making it easier for guests to access an Alaska cruise by bringing back a roundtrip option out of Los Angeles, which also make it more affordable for millions within that drive market."
Caribbean Princess to Debut in Alaska in 2025
In 2025, seven Princess ships will sail to Alaska, including Caribbean Princess for the first time. In addition, the number of Princess homeports offering Alaska voyages expands to five with the addition of Los Angeles, with the season featuring 21 cruise destinations and four glacier-viewing experiences, highlighted by 88 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, taking more guests to this spectacular national park than any other cruise line.
With 155 total departures on 18 unique itineraries ranging in length from 4 to 22 days, cruise and cruisetour choices include:
Cruises – Seven Ships, Five Homeports
• NEW! Ultimate Alaska Solstice with Glacier Bay National Park: 22-day roundtrip from San Francisco on Ruby Princess – departs June 6, 2025
• NEW! Ultimate Alaska with Glacier Bay National Park: 17-day roundtrip from Seattle on Grand Princess – departs May 6, 2025
• Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park: 16-day roundtrip from Los Angeles on Grand Princess visiting Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan and Victoria, B.C. – departs August 30, 2025
• Voyage of the Glaciers: This top-rated seven-day itinerary features Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and two glacier-viewing experiences at Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord. Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, and Sapphire Princess offer weekly northbound and southbound cruises from Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (Whittier) and vice versa. Guests can combine select seven-day voyages for an amazing 14-day Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure – operates May 10 to September 13, 2025.
• Inside Passage: Princess' signature seven-day roundtrip sailings from Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., as well as 11-day roundtrip departures from San Francisco and Vancouver that include four ports of call and a day of glacier viewing. Many Inside Passage cruises include Glacier Bay National Park. Discovery Princess and Royal Princess sail from Seattle weekly, May 4 – September 21, 2025. Grand Princess offers weekly cruises from Vancouver, B.C., May 27 – August 19, 2025. Ruby Princess sails 11-day cruises roundtrip from San Francisco May 4 – September 13, 2025.
• Alaska Samplers: Three itineraries of four to five days offer shorter voyages for guests looking for a quick getaway. Discovery Princess, Royal Princess and Grand Princess operate four-day, roundtrip voyages between Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle with a stop in Ketchikan – departing April 30, May 13 and May 23, 2025. Caribbean Princess sails a four-day, roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, B.C., with a visit to Ketchikan departing September 13, 2025, and a five-day roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, B.C., with stops in Sitka and Ketchikan sailing May 5, 2025.
Cruisetours
• More than 26 cruisetour options give guests variety of choice with four styles of travel including Denali Explorer tours, On Your Own options, Connoisseur Deluxe Escorted and Off the Beaten Path.
• The exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service ensures a seamless transition between the ship in Whittier and the Denali area on the same day.
• Two Denali-area lodges, Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge and Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, provide unique perspectives for experiencing North America's tallest mountain.
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Royal Caribbean Group Reports Second Quarter Earnings
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Royal Caribbean Group today reported second quarter Earnings per Share of $1.70 and Adjusted Earnings per Share of $1.82. These results were significantly better than the company's guidance due to stronger pricing on closer-in demand and further strength in onboard revenue. As a result of the accelerating demand environment for its vacation experiences, Royal Caribbean said that it is increasing its 2023 Adjusted Earnings per Share guidance by 33% to $6.00 – $6.20.
 "Our brands continue to fire on all cylinders, resulting in record yields and second quarter earnings significantly exceeding our expectations," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "Demand for cruising and our brands is exceptionally strong and we have seen another step change in booking volumes and pricing, leading us to now expect double-digit net yield growth for the full year. We also expect to achieve record Adjusted EBITDA per APCD and Return on Invested Capital this year and are well on our way toward achieving our Trifecta goals."
Key Highlights
Strong ticket pricing from both North America and Europe itineraries, combined with strength in onboard revenue, led to better-than-expected revenues in the second quarter and the significant increase in the company's full year outlook for revenue and earnings.
Second Quarter 2023:
• Gross Margin Yields increased 13.1% As-Reported, and Net Yields increased 12.9% in Constant-Currency (12.6% As-Reported), both compared to the second quarter of 2019.
• Gross Cruise Costs per Available Passenger Cruise Day ("APCD") increased 10.9% As-Reported, and Net Cruise Costs ("NCC"), excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 9.0% in Constant-Currency (8.6% As-Reported), both compared to the second quarter of 2019. Favorable timing of operating expenses was offset by the increase in stock compensation expense due to the rise in share price and expected financial performance.
• Total revenues were a record $3.5 billion, Net Income was $458.8 million or $1.70 per share, Adjusted Net Income was $491.7 million or $1.82 per share, Adjusted EBITDA was a record $1.2 billion and Operating Cash Flow was $1.4 billion.
Full Year 2023 Outlook:
• Net Yields are expected to increase 11.5% to 12.0% in Constant-Currency and As-Reported, compared to 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to be up approximately 7.0% in Constant-Currency (6.7% As-Reported), compared to 2019. The increase in costs, relative to previous guidance, is driven by an increase in stock compensation expense due to the rise in share price and expected financial performance.
• Adjusted Earnings per Share for the full year are expected to be in the range of $6.00 to $6.20 per share.
Third Quarter 2023 Outlook:
• Net Yields are expected to increase 13.5% to 14.0% in Constant-Currency (14.0% to 14.5% As-Reported), compared to the third quarter of 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to increase approximately 11.2% in Constant-Currency and As-Reported, compared to third quarter 2019. Approximately half of the cost increase compared to 2019 is related to structural costs, timing shift of operating expenses from the second quarter, and increase in stock compensation expense.
Adjusted Earnings per Share for the third quarter are expected to be in the range of $3.38 to $3.48 per share.
Second Quarter 2023
Royal Caribbean said that it reported Net Income for the second quarter of $458.8 million or $1.70 per share compared to Net Loss of $(0.5) billion or $(2.05) per share for the same period in the prior year. Royal Caribbean said that it also reported Adjusted Net Income of $491.7 million or $1.82 per share for the second quarter compared to Adjusted Net Loss of $(0.5) billion or $(2.08) per share for the same period in the prior year.
Second quarter revenue significantly exceeded the company's guidance due to higher pricing and higher shipboard revenue across the company's key itineraries, including the Caribbean and Europe. Load factor for the second quarter was 105%.
Gross Cruise Costs per APCD increased 10.9% As-Reported, compared to 2019. NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 8.6% As-Reported and 9.0% in Constant-Currency, compared to 2019. Favorable timing of operating expenses drove NCC lower, however it was offset entirely by an increase in stock compensation expense related costs due to the significant rise in share price and expected financial performance.
Update on Bookings
Booking volumes in the second quarter remained significantly higher than the corresponding period in 2019 and at record pricing levels. Demand for 2023 sailings has significantly exceeded expectations and bookings for 2024 sailings are up significantly versus all prior years at record prices. Demand from the North American consumer has remained incredibly strong throughout the year, and booking volumes from European consumers who are booking European cruises this summer have accelerated.
The further increase in yield expectations for the year is the result of higher pricing and onboard revenue expectations for key itineraries, particularly in North America and Europe. Consumer spending onboard, as well as pre-cruise purchases, continue to significantly exceed 2019 levels driven by greater participation at higher prices.
As of June 30, 2023, the Group's customer deposit balance was at a record-high $5.7 billion.
Fuel Expense
Bunker pricing net of hedging for the second quarter was $682 per metric ton and consumption was 405,000 metric tons.
Royal Caribbean said that it does not forecast fuel prices and its fuel cost calculations are based on current at-the-pump prices, net of hedging impacts. Based on today's fuel prices, Royal Caribbean said that it has included $275 million of fuel expense in its third quarter guidance at a forecasted consumption of 408,000 metric tons, which is 55% hedged via swaps. Forecasted consumption is 54%, 60% and 40% hedged via swaps for the remainder of 2023, 2024 and 2025, respectively. The annual average cost per metric ton of the hedge portfolio is approximately $573, $509, and $496 for 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively.
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Smooth Sailing Aboard Carnival Breeze for Galveston Students Interested in Maritime Careers
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Carnival Cruise Line welcomed 20 Galveston budding marine leaders from Galveston for a special tour of Carnival Breeze and presentation on career opportunities in the cruise industry as students from the Maritime Careers Summer Camp sponsored by Texas A&M University and the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce visited the ship today. As part of the special event, students heard from Carnival Breeze Captain Gaspare Marzullo, President and CEO of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce Gina Spagnola and Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees. They also participated in a fun trivia game with surprise giveaways and were treated to lunch.
 “We are so proud to have been operating in Galveston for the last 23 years and are honored to do our part to support local youth with efforts like this special ship tour,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are deeply committed to the Galveston community and that commitment will only strengthen as we expand our operations and launch our newest ship, Carnival Jubilee, later this year.”
The Maritime Careers Summer Camp exposes rising eighth to 10th-grade students interested in maritime careers to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The free week-long camp has served more than 100 Galveston County students since 2015. In addition to the visit to the Galveston Wharves and Carnival Breeze, the camp includes other experiences such as tours of the cargo port and naval vessels, visits to active military training facilities and hands-on work designing and constructing autonomous underwater vehicles.
“The Port of Galveston is an economic engine and a generator of jobs for our community,” said Rees. “These students have the fourth most popular cruise home port and a top U.S. cargo port right in their own backyards. It was a pleasure to educate them on the many job opportunities available to them in the maritime industry.”
Carnival was the first cruise line to launch year-round cruising from the Port of Galveston and the line will carry more than 650,000 guests from Galveston in 2023. Carnival Jubilee, the next new ship in the Excel class, will first sail from Galveston on Dec. 23, 2023, joining Carnival Breeze and Carnival Dream operating from Galveston year-round. In 2024, Carnival will increase its deployment to four ships when Carnival Miracle begins operating from the port.
“With this summer camp, the Chamber aims to inspire the next generation of Galveston maritime professionals,” said Spagnola. “We are so appreciative of Carnival for taking part in this year’s camp and know that this tour will go a long way in making an impact on our local students.”
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
18.84 |
+ 5.55% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
109.11 |
+ 6.00% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
22.071 |
+ 6.05% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
On what mass market cruise ship did former United States' President and Mrs.Carter sail on in the early 80's?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which ocean liner and cruise ship has the distinction of having sailed with one, two and three funnels over her long career?
Answer - The ss Queen of Bermuda is the only cruise ship to have sailed with 1, 2, or 3 funnels over her career. Built with 3 funnels, down to 2 funnels during WWII, back to 3 funnels postwar then to 1 funnel during an early 60s refit to make her look more like her newer running mate the Ocean Monarch.
courtesy of Larry P Macdonald
Cruise News - July 24, 2023
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Carnival Jubilee Floats Out and Reveals Texas Star on Bow
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Carnival Cruise Line’s next new ship, Carnival Jubilee, marked a key construction milestone as it floated out of the covered building dock at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany and revealed an important feature of its design: a Texas star proudly displayed on the bow.
 “The Texas star on Carnival Jubilee’s bow is a symbol of our commitment to the Port of Galveston. As the first cruise line to sail year-round from Galveston, we have a long history with the community, and our next new ship is our latest investment in support of the local economy’s impressive growth while delivering innovative experiences for our guests,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “I’m looking forward to Carnival Jubilee showing off her Texas pride starting later this year.”
Hundreds of spectators gathered at the shipyard to get the world’s first look at the newest Carnival ship, and they also got a taste of Texas. A fun tailgate-style party, complete with snacks and drinks from Carnival partner PepsiCo, accompanied the ship’s float out.
Now, Carnival Jubilee moves into its next phase of construction alongside the shipyard’s outfitting pier. Over the weekend, Carnival Jubilee will briefly cast off from the pier to conduct various tests on the bow thrusters and stabilisers. Sea trials are scheduled for November.
Carnival’s newest ship is part of its groundbreaking Excel-class and will offer stunning features already wowing guests aboard her sisters Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, including the next iteration of the first roller coaster at sea, BOLT: The Ultimate Seacoaster. Six fun-filled zones, two of which are completely unique to the ship and imaginatively themed to celebrate the ocean, offer extensive dining, beverage and entertainment options.
The ship will sail year-round on Western Caribbean itineraries beginning in late December – though she will not be the first Carnival Jubilee to sail from Galveston. Like her sisters, the ship shares a name with a classic Carnival ship, and the first Carnival Jubilee sailed from Galveston in 2002. The new Carnival Jubilee is four times larger than her predecessor and will bring four times the fun for Carnival guests to enjoy.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Extensive Enhancements to Norwegian Joy
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Norwegian Cruise Line announced today that Norwegian Joy will undergo enhancements in January 2024 to elevate the onboard guest experience with popular offerings, including a new Thermal Suite in the Mandara Spa and Salon, expanded Vibe Beach Club, 24 new staterooms, redesigned Three-Bedroom The Haven Premier Owner’s Suites and more.
 When Norwegian Joy emerges from the three-week dry dock taking place from Jan. 22, 2024 to Feb. 12, 2024, guests will have access to an elevated onboard spa experience with a brand-new Thermal Suite, soon-to-be the largest of the Breakaway-Plus class ships. Designed with NCL guest feedback in mind, the debuting Spa Thermal Suite will boast a more centralized layout with an unparalleled arrival experience featuring elegant sculptures and an entrance corridor encompassed with waterfalls. A separate lounge area will feature three times as many of the popular hot tile loungers, and guests will be able to enjoy easy access to relaxing and reinvigorating experiences including a sauna, ice room and aromatic steam room. Additional innovative offerings include a new Biostation with IV Drip Therapy, an increasingly popular rejuvenating treatment delivering essential nutrients to the body; four-senses loungers for the ultimate sensory experience for deep relaxation; and Kneipp haptic foot therapy, which massages feet as guests walk across the pebbled moving stream that alternates between hot and cold foot baths. The all-new Thermal Suite will replace the Galaxy Pavilion, the ship’s virtual-reality complex.
“Delivering exceptional experiences across our fleet is what we strive to do,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We have listened to our guests and have taken action. With this revitalization we are adding some of the most beloved spaces and offerings across our ships to enhance the guest experience aboard Norwegian Joy. Guests will have a greater variety of staterooms to choose from and a world class, full-service spa to spend their days at sea fully immersed in relaxation.”
In an effort to continue to offer guests more choice of accommodations, the redesign will include repurposing a portion of the Observation Lounge to create 24 new balcony staterooms, as well as recategorizing 40 new spa balcony staterooms, which will include direct access to the Mandara Spa and the premiering Thermal Suite. Additionally, as a result of unprecedented demand, Norwegian Joy’s The Haven by Norwegian Premier Owner’s Suites with a Large Balcony will be expanded to three-bedrooms. The two suites will include three bedrooms; three and a half bathrooms; a fully renovated living room, master bedroom and outdoor balcony furniture; as well as a new separate dining room overlooking the forward-facing The Haven Horizon Lounge. The Haven by Norwegian® is the Company’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship, and key-card access only complex featuring the most spacious suites and dedicated experiences including concierge service, a private pool area, restaurant and bar.
In addition, the ever-popular, and nearly always sold-out, exclusive adults-only Vibe Beach Club will be expanded, taking over the existing Laser Tag arena on Deck 20. The space will boast a similar layout to the Vibe Beach Club found on Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss, with new private luxe cabanas.
Norwegian Joy will resume sailings post dry dock on Feb. 13, 2024, when she embarks on an 11-Day Transatlantic voyage from Southampton, United Kingdom to Miami. In March 2024, the ship will cruise seven-day round-trip Caribbean voyages from Miami before sailing to Bermuda from New York for summer 2024.
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Celebrity Cruises Unveils New Flavors and Culinary Experiences
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Celebrity Cruises this week un unveiled details of the culinary and beverage program planned for its highly-anticipated new ship, Celebrity Ascent. The fourth vessel in the line's revolutionary Edge Series, Ascent, will delight travelers with redesigned restaurants, a new immersive dinner experience, expanded food and cocktail menus, a new whiskey tasting experience, and a plant-based multi-course dinner.
"The memories we make with family and friends while sharing food and drink has long-been one of the most memorable parts of travel, and with Celebrity Ascent we sought every opportunity to make these experiences richer and even more exciting for our guests," says Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises' President. "Onboard Ascent there is something to delight every guest, whether it is the fine dining connoisseur with a palate for the world's best wines, the couple looking for an intimate and romantic night out, the family that desires to bond with their kids over a fun and high-energy experience, or the wellness-minded traveler desiring more plant-based, healthy options."
A New Le Voyage: Chef Daniel Boulud's Exclusive Restaurants at Sea
World renowned chef, Daniel Boulud, Celebrity's Global Culinary Ambassador, will bring his highly acclaimed restaurant concept at sea to Celebrity Ascent. The second installment of the highly rated fine dining venue, Le VoyageSM will feature an all-new design that creates a stunning scene and ambiance, featuring a new chandelier, captivating neutrals, plush banquet seating, and gold tones throughout. Guests will experience a global menu crafted by Chef Boulud himself that offers dishes from his personal travels and favorite places around the world. For the ultimate culinary experience, groups can reserve the Chef's Table – a private, 6-seat dining room that treats diners to a multi-course tasting dinner complete with exceptional wine pairings. In true Boulud fashion, diners are treated to his signature homemade madeleines at the end of each meal.
Plant-Based Flavors and Options Pop
 One of the most captivating venues onboard Edge Series ships, Eden, is a window to the world, featuring three levels of sensory experiences completely wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows. The multi-use venue offers a casual lunch café, a cocktail bar, an entertainment space, an outdoor terrace and a signature restaurant – all of which come alive at night with a fusion of music, libations, and performances unlike anything else at sea. One of the highlights of Eden is its signature restaurant, offering a culinary journey rooted in untouched, fresh and seasonal ingredients. With the arrival of Ascent, travelers will have the opportunity to experience global cuisine in its most pristine and untouched form through a new seven-course plant-based tasting menu. Each dish features ingredients that have been sourced from their original place of origin and presented in the most natural state. Menu highlights include dishes like the Golden Beet-Tomato Ceviche, Ajoblanco Panna Cotta, Roasted and Glazed Celeriac Steak, and Dry Rose Petals Masala Curry. Enjoyed as a tasting menu, or a la carte, diners can also opt for organic and vegan wine pairings.
Expanded Offerings at Main Dining Rooms and Redesigned Cosmopolitan Restaurant
With the Edge Series ships, Celebrity presented a new dining room concept, expanding offerings from one main dining room to four main dining restaurants –each offering a different style of cuisine and signature dishes. Onboard Ascent, travelers will continue to enjoy the option for New American cuisine at Cosmopolitan restaurant; Mediterranean at Cyprus; French contemporary at Normandie; and Italian at Tuscan. Combined, the four main dining restaurants offer travelers more than 84 different dishes to choose from. Guests of Cosmopolitan will be delighted by its new design inspired by the culture of champagne, featuring a new layout and seating throughout.
Specialty Dining Revamps at Le Petit Chef, Fine Cut and Blu
Celebrity continues to be the only cruise line to feature the immersive and high-tech Le Petit Chef dinner experience that has become a worldwide favorite. Each dinner features a multi-course menu that is brought to life by colorful and fun animations of a tiny chef who tells the story behind each dish. Each course's animation ends with a digital version of the dish, followed by the real-life dish placed seamlessly in front of the diner for a wow-worthy experience. Exclusively available on Ascent, guests will experience an all-new four-course dining show told in the style of a fairytale as the tiny chef comes across a mysterious magical cookbook with whimsical recipes full of surprises.
The crowd-favorite Fine Cut Steakhouse, recognized for its impressive selection of prime meats, from dry-aged filets to larger-than-life Tomahawk steaks, will now offer a new dish – the Lemon Poached Lobster Tail with melted leeks, shiitake mushrooms, lobster ravioli and a house made beurre Blanc sauce. Meanwhile, guests of the wellness-minded Aqua Class will enjoy the opportunity to dine al fresco for breakfast or dinner in Blu's new outdoor terrace space.
Raising a Glass and Raising the Bar with New Drink Offerings
Celebrity Cruises is renowned for its extensive spirits tasting program, which currently includes partnerships with Jack Daniel's and Macallan. For Ascent the brand will be going even further to delight the most experienced beverage connoisseur through a new exclusive partnership with WhistlePig Whiskey. Brought to life in close collaboration with Chief Blender, Meghan Ireland, Ascent will feature two hand-selected barrels made exclusively for Celebrity Cruises. Available at Craft Social, guests can enjoy a Special Bespoke Barrel Aged 12 Years and Special Single Barrel Aged 10 Years, either as a la carte options or as part of a tasting flight that also features WhistlePig PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon (Aged 6 Years), WhistlePig 10, and WhistlePig 12.
With more than 100 Wine Spectator awards in over a decade, and still the only cruise line to ever receive the coveted "Best Of" Award of Excellence, no other cruise line delights wine lovers more. Three of Celebrity Ascent's venues were recognized at the 2023 Wine Spectator Awards, with Le Voyage and Tuscan being recipients of the "Best Of" Award of Excellence, and Fine Cut becoming an Award of Excellence winner. Wine aficionados will enjoy each of the venue's extensive wine lists, as well as Ascent's expert certified sommeliers, and signature wine tasting seminars and world tour experiences.
At the heart of each Edge Series ship is The Grand Plaza with the signature wrap-around Martini Bar as the main focal point. Sitting beneath The Chandelier, a breathtaking light fixture-meets-art installation that comes alive each night during the iconic Flair Bartender Shows. Here, a group of expert mixologists put on a high-energy show where they create a tower of martinis while dancing to choreography and showcasing their skills. The Martini Bar on Ascent will feature an expanded new menu, offering classic martinis, fruit-infused creations, and tantalizing desert martinis.
Celebrity Ascent will make its grand debut this November, as it sets sail from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades for its inaugural Caribbean season.
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Seabourn Reveals Design Details for New Expedition Vessel Seabourn Pursuit
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Seabourn is revealing the stunning design details of its second purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, scheduled to launch in August 2023.
As fashioned by esteemed multi-disciplinary studio Tihany Design, led by Managing Partner Alessia Genova and Founder Adam D. Tihany, Seabourn Pursuit is finely tuned with decorative details such as lighter bedding accoutrements that align with its primary dedication to warm-water excursions in more tropical destinations. Suites will also be outfitted with lush blankets and fur pillows, for instance, for the ship's inaugural year explorations of Antarctica, running from late November 2023 to late March 2024.
 "Seabourn Pursuit is our newest crown jewel, where guests will experience the perfect blend of ultra-luxury design combined with elevated expedition experiences," said Seabourn President, Natalya Leahy. "While exploring remote locations around the world, our guests will immerse in a home-away-from-home designed with luxurious spaces in mind to reflect the natural beauty guests will experience aboard Seabourn Pursuit. This state-of-the-art expedition ship is truly a celebration of the creative energy and input of our design collaborator, Tihany Design, and we are proud to welcome Seabourn Pursuit to our ultra-luxury fleet."
Design Highlights
Seabourn Pursuit, along with its sister expedition vessel Seabourn Venture, feature a custom-made furniture collection developed by Tihany Product Design that is tailored to the character and experiential premise of each on board space even as it defines the look of the Seabourn brand. The bespoke furniture line, produced by world renowned Italian furniture manufacturer Roda, combines authentic Italian craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology and innovation, with furnishings that celebrate the quality and design of the tools and clothing used in exploration. Framed in wood and metal, pieces radiate a sense of luxurious handcrafted ruggedness with textured fabric and leather, giving unmatched bespoke identity to every corner of the ship across its nine decks, and 132 oceanfront suites.
Details in suites include custom-designed switches on the bedside light panel that appear vintage and yet are ultra-contemporary in function, parchment-inspired wall panels finished with digitally printed wall laminate material that mimics wood with alluring, granular detail; heated flooring with wooden-look tiles; carpeting designed with organic shapes; and furniture with wood frames, exposed rivets, and bronze inlays. The duplex Wintergarden and Grand Wintergarden Suites feature a sculptural staircase leading to the bedroom, and advanced technology including a roll-up, tuck-away TV to preserve seamless, double-height views (two decks).
Noteworthy design details continue in public areas throughout Seabourn Pursuit. The Discovery Center, for instance, which houses an immersive large screen for lectures and video experiences, has an academic, enriching environment inspired by the landscape of Antarctica, incorporating a natural colour palette and organic shapes of topography maps that play off the elegant curves of plush custom seating and a unique textured liquid metal wall covering.
Within the comfortable and engaging Expedition Lounge, two fireplaces producing lifelike water vapor flames and a vintage map on an etched glass partition combine to create an enchanting ambiance that calls to the memories of past adventures. Custom furniture designed with warm natural materials and textures create a space that is inviting and tactile while echoing the sense of quality and craftsmanship of the instruments and tools of early explorers.
The inviting Seabourn Square is the living room of the ship, offering a variety of outdoor settings for guests to relax in comfort and take in views with the aid of fixed Swarovski telescopes. Wood-backed scalloped banquettes and Tihany Product Design lounge chairs encircle live edge wood coffee and side tables, creating intimate gathering spaces. Wrapped in riveted leather wall panels, the room is topped with an overlapping circular panel ceiling, adding dimension and recalling the symmetrical composition of a compass. The Argyle-influenced carpet pattern adds warmth, and thoughtfully curated bookshelves, expedition art and accessories paint the picture of an explorer's private home decked out with mementos and discoveries.
Ultra-Luxury Gathering Spaces
The overall design scheme of Seabourn Pursuit balances the exploration theme with the comfort and luxury of an expedition vessel. Guests are encouraged to relax and enjoy downtime to complement daily adventures off ship, with interiors that carefully integrate light and space, a warm colour palette, and natural fibres. Different areas work together to optimize smooth passenger flow, inspiring a sense of ease throughout.
• The Atrium connects all guest-area decks via an elegant staircase with a sky-lit space complete with wood and metal finishes with details including rhythmically placed rope work and a topography-inspired liquid metal wall treatment. The diamond-shaped floor pattern emphasizes a captivating artwork created at the base of the space.
• The Landing Zone is the ship's utility space where guests change, clean, and store boots and gear following excursions. Reimagined by Tihany Design as a comfortable setting of sleek, modern design, the Landing Zone combines a durable material palette of floor tile, wood, and metal details with rivet accents to evoke the characteristics of luggage as well as the orange-tinged uniforms of the crew.
• The Bow Lounge on Deck 6 provides the closest access to the water via the foredeck, making it a prime destination to watch for marine life. Comfortable and engaging, the lounge is designed to mimic elements of the Captain's bridge, with expansive windows and interactive monitors displaying updated information about the day at sea. Touch screens offer a live map, weather information and more.
• The Constellation Lounge offers stunning, 270-degree views as far as guests' eyes can see. Set on the top deck, its intimate interior is an ode to constellations, with a dark blue and red palette accented by silver and bronze metals and intricate stone floors, and lighting that generates a shimmering star-like pattern across the ceiling. A central bar is fashioned from faceted metal and stone and illuminated by a unique diamond-shaped lighting cove. Velvet banquettes and sling-back chairs by Tihany Design create a seductive and relaxed environment for enjoying live music.
• The Club features expansive windows, making it an ideal spot to watch the amazing scenery and wildlife. Fashioned with design touches using brilliant hues of blue and green inspired by the deep-sea and unique art displays, The Club has an impressive water-vapor fireplace set like buried treasure at the center of the venue, and a dedicated stage and dance floor for live performances. It also includes an extraordinary sushi experience, offering a variety of hand-prepared sushi bites freshly made to order every evening.
• The ship's Spa & Wellness integrates the design concept of a contemporary "floating forest," with details such as a tree-inspired textured art mural, light wood and bronze material palette, and reception done up with live wood features. The fitness center and yoga areas feature an open wall of floor-to-ceiling windows for striking views looking out onto the world around you.
• The Restaurant merges bold lines and shapes with softness reminiscent of falling snow. Leather wall paneling is brought to life with a unique three-dimensional diamond arrangement and visible stitching, while geometric carpeting in blue and purple surrounds a porcelain tile floor that recalls the natural sediment of a geode. Custom-designed dining chairs produced by renowned Italian furniture manufacturer Roda echo craftsmanship throughout the ship with rich burgundy leather, textured fabric seat back, exposed rivet details, and wood frame. A wine display encased in bronze framed glass will inspire conversation as sophisticated as its inventory.
• The casual Colonnade dining space on Deck 5 takes inspiration from historic maritime design with a ceiling of riveted curved wood panels evoking the feel of a wooden hull of an early expedition ship, decorative metal plate details, wood flooring, and art displays of intricate nautical knots. Buffet stations are dressed up with three-dimensional textured tile and white stone countertops and set beneath a sleek copper ceiling for the feeling of a working kitchen. Guests are welcome to dine outside on the aft deck, home to an infinity-style pool, two whirlpools, and a pair of sculptural showers.
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HAL's New '42-Day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage' in 2024 is Inspired by a Cruise from a Century Ago
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Holland America Line is adding another Legendary Voyage to its diverse roster of lengthier cruises from convenient gateways. The "42-day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage" aboard Volendam departing Nov. 9, 2024, was inspired by a voyage the cruise line operated nearly 100 years ago. Perfectly designed for today's traveler, the 2024 departure sails roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, allowing guests to experience 16 different ports across nine countries, all without international air.
 "We're excited to add a longer voyage that makes it easy to explore the Med in depth without a long-haul flight."
The original voyage that provided the vision for the "42-day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage" departed New York City Feb. 4, 1925, aboard Rotterdam IV and carried just 550 guests across the Atlantic Ocean to explore many of the same ports. The 2024 cruise follows in the footsteps of the 1925 journey, visiting Portugal, Morocco, Italy, Greece, Israel, Egypt, Tunisia, Gibraltar (United Kingdom) and Spain.
"Holland America Line was one of the first companies to feature cruise vacations that went beyond a transatlantic crossing, and today we're continuing to innovate our itineraries by offering memorable voyages like this ultimate Mediterranean and Atlantic passage sailing," said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer, Holland America Line. "Since introducing this new Legendary category of cruises that offer an in-depth focus on one region, they've been very popular. We're excited to add a longer voyage that makes it easy to explore the Med in depth without a long-haul flight."
The "42-day Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage" route first visits Horta and Ponta Delgada in the Azores after crossing the Atlantic Ocean. A call at Tangier, Morocco, is followed by overnight visits to both Livorno and Civitavecchia, Italy. From Livorno, guests can explore Florence or Pisa, while Rome is easily accessed from Civitavecchia. Volendam then makes way to Naples, Italy, and Catania, Sicily, before Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
Guests will then explore the Holy Land at Haifa (Tel Aviv) and Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel, followed by Port Said and Alexandria (Cairo), in Egypt. The final ports on the voyage include La Goulette (Tunis), Tunisia; Gibraltar; Cadiz (Seville), Spain: and Casablanca, Morocco. The cruise concludes Dec. 21 at Fort Lauderdale.
These lengthier cruises, which range from 25 to 59 days, combine the ceremony of Holland America Line's Grand Voyages while focusing on a singular region. They visit some of the most unique ports while offering guests an in-depth exploration. Shipboard programming is specially curated to share insights into the history and culture of the destinations visited.
Most of Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation. The itineraries are offered on a variety of the line's perfectly sized ships where guests enjoy the "best of" Grand Voyages on-board programming such as iconic theme parties, memorable sailaways and classic cruise activities to further enhance the experience.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
17.85 |
+ 0.79% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
102.93 |
+ 4.22% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
20.81 |
+ 0.24% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which ocean liner and cruise ship has the distinction of having sailed with one, two and three funnels over her long career?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Some of the inside cabins P&O's s/s Canberra had an interesting feature that made them brighter than inside cabins on most other cruise ships. What was the feature?
Answer - The interesting feature that Canberra had that made some of the inside cabins were windows that looked out into a "court". These cabins, called "court cabins", were built in such a way that the they were staggered down the corridor and the wall of the innermost cabin jutted slightly passed that of the more outer cabin and had a window placed there - thus light from the outside would penetrate these inside cabins. They were usually 3 deep.
courtesy of Timothy Edgecombe
Cruise News - July 17, 2023
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Regent Names Godmother for Newest Cruise Ship
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises today announced that Sarah Fabergé, Founding Member of The Fabergé Heritage Council and great-granddaughter of Peter Carl Fabergé, will serve as Godmother to the ship that will embody A Heritage of Perfection, Seven Seas Grandeur.
 Sarah will christen the ship at an elegant and exclusive gala event in Miami, Florida on December 10, 2023, which will also feature incredible entertainment from Emmy and Tony Award-Winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth.
The Seven Seas Grandeur will then embark on a three-night Caribbean christening cruise, before returning to Miami for its maiden Caribbean season.
“As a founding member of the Fabergé Heritage Council, Sarah symbolizes the shared ethos and distinctive qualities that define our two eminent luxury brands and is therefore the ideal Godmother of our newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur,” said Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “We are deeply honored to name Sarah Fabergé as Godmother, and I am delighted to welcome her to the Regent Seven Seas Cruises family.”
DeMarco continued: “Seven Seas Grandeur has been inspired by the past and stunningly reimagined for the future, exemplifying our heritage of perfection with unrivaled space, unparalleled service, epicurean perfection, and transformative experiences that begin the moment guests step aboard. Fabergé’s storied legacy of unwavering perfection, unparalleled craftsmanship, and relentless pursuit of excellence aligns harmoniously with the core values of our own distinguished luxury brand.”
“Today’s Fabergé looks to the ingenuity of my great-grandfather, Peter Carl Fabergé and his constant pursuit of excellence,” said Sarah Fabergé, Director of Special Projects and Founding Member of the Fabergé Heritage Council. “I am honored to be Godmother to this extraordinary new ship which, like Fabergé, has been inspired by the past and reimagined for the future, and I also look forward to hosting Regent guests onboard Seven Seas Grandeur for my exclusive Spotlight Voyage in 2024”.
Great-granddaughter of Peter Carl Fabergé – the legendary artist-jeweler and creative and entrepreneurial genius behind the world-renowned company that bore his name – Sarah is member of the Fabergé Heritage Council which helps to support the Fabergé Management Team in its pursuit of excellence and exclusivity and provides guidance on Peter Carl Fabergé and his legacy.
As part of Regent’s partnership with Fabergé, Sarah will wear bespoke earrings and a ring specifically designed for the upcoming Christening event. These pieces, made of 18k white gold and featuring blue guilloché enamel, white diamonds and pearls, will not only grace Sarah as an ensemble during this elegant event but will also be auctioned to raise money for charity in 2024, the company said.
The proceeds from this auction will be donated to the Gemfields Foundation, the charitable arm of Gemfields which is the parent company of Fabergé. The foundation is dedicated to undertaking various activations designed to address poverty alleviation in communities and wildlife conservation in sub-Saharan Africa. Notably, the charity’s impactful projects span countries which Regent visits, such as Madagascar and Mozambique.
Sarah’s appointment as Godmother to Seven Seas Grandeur comes in celebration of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ partnership with Fabergé. As part of the collaboration, Regent previously announced the commission of a one-of-a-kind, meticulously hand-crafted objet d’art known as Journey in Jewels. This exquisite Fabergé egg will hold the distinction of being the first-ever permanent resident of its kind on the open seas, proudly serving as the crowning jewel within the ship’s awe-inspiring multi-million-dollar art collection.
Additionally, Sarah will host a Fabergé Spotlight Voyage on board Seven Seas Grandeur, sailing July 1, 2024, enveloping luxury travelers into the world of Fabergé with small group master-class programs, exclusive access to unique and intimate shore-side tours, jeweled egg demonstrations and fascinating lectures and screenings. The 10-night sailing will depart from Rome (Civitavecchia) and cruise the Mediterranean, calling in Salerno, Italy; Taormina (Sicily), Italy; Valletta, Malta; Palma de Mallorca; Barcelona, Spain; Provence (Marseille), and Antibes, France before ending at Monte Carlo.
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Carnival Begins Fleetwide Rollout of New Dining Room Offerings
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Following a successful pilot on Carnival Dream, Carnival Cruise Line is rolling out new dinner menus for its dining rooms in a phased approach across the fleet beginning with Carnival Conquest today. The new menus bring more variety to its dining room offerings with dozens of new dishes curated by Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse in conjunction with Carnival chefs. Among the many new menu items are Emeril Selects, which are personally recommended by the renowned chef and restauranteur.
 “Food is an ever-evolving art, so our approach to the dining room offerings is to infuse a selection of new dishes, feature more international flavors and complement the Carnival classics our guests love,” said Lagasse. “Working with our skilled team of Carnival chefs, we recently tested and selected more than 60 new dishes to mix into the dining room rotation. I’m pleased that these dishes were very well received by our guests on Carnival Dream, so we are very excited to roll them out to the Carnival fleet.”
Guests embarking Carnival Conquest in Miami today will be the next to experience the enhanced offerings, followed by Carnival Horizon and, next month, four more ships, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Vista, Carnival Radiance and Mardi Gras, will implement the changes as well. Each month, the new menu items will be introduced aboard several ships based in Carnival’s U.S. homeports into early 2024. Carnival’s Australia-based ships will implement the new menu items later next year.
A sampling of items guests will find on the newly enhanced menus is summarized below. In addition, dining room menus will include a periodic rotation of offerings from Carnival’s well regarded specialty restaurants.
Palate-Pleasing Additions Bring New Flavors Aboard
• Hawaiian Shrimp Poke – a flavorful starter that combines avocado, edamame, rice, creamy spicy sauce, togarashi chili and wakame.
• Roasted Duck Rolls – a delicious appetizer made with rice paper and scallions and served with sweet garlic sauce.
• Pappardelle with Braised Lamb – an Italian-inspired first course featuring tomato cream sauce, garlic and parsley.
• Grilled Swordfish – a tasty seafood entrée that’s served with smashed fingerling potatoes, fava beans and cherry tomato salad in a citrus saffron sauce.
• Cornish Game Hen – an elegant entrée served with roasted root vegetable and pan gravy.
• Salad Entrees –the Ultimate Cobb Salad, the Asian Chopped Salad with Chicken, and the Beefsteak Salad.
• Desserts – the Dutch Double Chocolate Pave, a rich chocolate cake, along with a refreshing Banana Cream Pie.
‘Emeril Selects’ Elevates Dining Experience
• Crab and Shrimp Cake – this seafood appetizer is served over charred corn and apple slaw and remoulade sauce.
• Beef Carpaccio – mascarpone-truffle cream flavors this Italian-inspired appetizer.
• Coffee Glazed Roast Duck – Creole potato wedges accompany this delectable duck entrée.
• BBQ Salmon – house-made Worcestershire sauce flavors this entrée that’s served with an Andouille potato hash and topped with fried onion rings.
Carnival Classics Continue to Flavor the Fun
• Escargots Bourguignonne – this popular appetizer features shallots, garlic and parsley Pernod butter.
• Stuffed Mushrooms – spinach, Romano cheese and truffle herb velouté complete this tasty appetizer.
• 12-Hour Braised Short Ribs – this mainstay entrée is served with green beans, chive mashed potato and a truffle au jus.
• Classic Beef Wellington – A delicious beef fillet is wrapped in puff pastry and served with sweet and sour Brussels mushroom Madeira sauce.
• Chocolate Melting Cake – This rich and warm chocolate dessert is one of Carnival’s most popular dishes of all-time and the perfect complement to a scoop of ice cream.
• Bitter & Blanc – another guest-favorite, this bread pudding dessert is made all the tastier and more flavorful with a cinnamon dulce sauce.
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Oceania Announces a New Collection of Enticing Mediterranean Sailings for 2024
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Oceania Cruises offers an incredible lineup of immersive experiences across the Mediterranean in 2024, allowing guests to experience numerous cultural capitals and lesser-known gems. Sailing from cities including Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon, Athens and London, this exquisite selection of carefully crafted voyages aboard Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Oceania Cruises' newest ship, Vista, is ideal for travelers who wish to delve into this region's rich history and ancient cultures, cuisine and traditions. Sailings range from seven days to a 59-day Grand Voyage from Miami to Rome.
With 94 distinct itineraries spanning the entire region, and hundreds of small-group, immersive shore excursions to choose from, these itineraries offer guests the opportunity to savor la dolce vita, whether they enjoy searching for truffles in the countryside close to Rome, exploring Santorini's lesser-known active volcanoes or learning flamenco in Seville.
Food & Wine Trails tours and Culinary Discovery Tours™ offer the chance to dive into the traditions of Mediterranean cooking, with intimate food- and wine-focused tours designed for epicurean travelers. Beyond Blueprints tours elevate guests' appreciation for architecture with behind-the-scenes looks at some of the world's most iconic buildings and landmarks. Go Green tours offer enriching opportunities to experience how local communities and businesses conserve, sustain and elevate their surrounding environments, and Oceania Cruises' Go Local tours invite travelers to truly embed themselves into communities for engaging, one-of-a-kind experiences.
"We are delighted to offer such an extensive range of destination-intensive Mediterranean itineraries, allowing our well-traveled and curious guests to look at beloved Mediterranean destinations through a different lens," commented Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Our carefully curated diverse range of shore excursions, plus the relaxing home-away-from-home ambiance on board our boutique ships, offers the perfect luxury vacation choice."
Destination Highlights
Sitting on the island of Sicily, famed for its cathedrals, vineyards and island beaches, Syracuse is a 2,700-year-old city, notable for its rich Greek and Roman history. Guests can explore the ancient ruins of Siracusa, gaze at Mount Etna and cruise around Ortigia Island, Syracuse's most picturesque asset.
Perched on the Costa Blanca, Valencia is the historic paella capital of Spain. Here, guests have the chance to visit a local farm and pick fresh ingredients to make their own authentic paella. Famed for its seafood, oranges and its striking City of Arts and Sciences, guests can explore this city by bike, taking in the old town and the 13th-century cathedral.
For those looking to expand their historical knowledge, Ephesus, Turkey, is a must-visit. Browse the Ephesus Museum, which details how this ancient port city was once the most important trading post in the Mediterranean region. Crafty visitors might like to take in a carpet weaving demonstration, learning the traditional ways in a handicraft center, or mingle with locals in a small village outside Ephesus and join them for a hearty breakfast after choosing to help with their harvest.
Provence in southern France offers some of the most picturesque vistas and enticing flavors of the Mediterranean. Stroll the classic streets and squares of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence with a lavender ice cream, discovering where Van Gogh lived in the 18th century. Guests can also expand their palates with cheese and wine tasting in Avignon or explore the medieval villages and lavender museum of Luberon. Foodies can go searching for black truffle "diamonds" in the Provençal countryside, which will be paired with local wines in a subsequent tasting.
A call in Montenegro offers some of the most powerful contrasts for guests to explore. Discover Kotor, where the Montenegrin mountains rise up opposite the stunning cerulean Boka Bay. Walk the Kotor City Walls in an exclusive group tour of just 16 and visit the neoclassical Museum of King Nikola. Alternatively, board a small boat to explore the enchanting Gospa Islet from the water, which, legend has it, was created by dropping a rock into the bay after each successful voyage.
Santorini is one of the most iconic gems of the Mediterranean, with much to offer even the most seasoned of travelers. Enjoy a cocktail or a wine tasting amid the stunning white walls that make up Santorini, taking in the famous views of the turquoise Ionian Sea. The more adventurous can climb to the crater's rim of a still-active volcano on the 400-year-old islet of Nea Kameni, and then refresh with a swim in the warm thermal springs.
2024 Voyage Highlights
Oceania Cruises will offer its guests simply MORE than ever before, with free roundtrip airfare, free airport transfers, a free shore excursion credit up to $1,600 and a free beverage package for all guests, for all new reservations beginning July 1, 2023, for sailings departing October 1, 2023, or later. Created to elevate the guest experience, the newly unveiled value promise has been designed to create long-lasting memories in enticing destinations and provide access to exquisite indulgences.
Seafarer's Inspiration: 59 Days from Miami to Rome aboard Sirena, overnighting in Seville and Bordeaux and visiting Jost Van Dyke, Roseau, Bridgetown, Porto Grande, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife, Agadir, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Portimão, Lisbon, Santiago de Compostela, Saint-Malo, London, Edinburgh, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Glasgow, Belfast, Dublin, Holyhead, Waterford, Plymouth, Bilbao, La Coruña, Oporto, Tangier, Almeria, Alicante, Barcelona, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, Mahon, Sete, Saint-Tropez, Monte Carlo, Portofino, Propriano and Florence/Pisa/Tuscany. Departs March 27, 2024.
Ionian & Adriatic Seas: 10 Days from Valletta to Venice (Trieste) aboard Vista, overnighting in Istanbul, and visiting Ephesus, Mykonos, Athens, Dubrovnik, Pula/Rovinj. Departs April 21, 2024.
Classical Mediterranean: 14 Days from Barcelona to Rome aboard Marina, visiting Valencia, Palma de Mallorca, La Goulette, Valletta, Syracuse, Argostoli, Santorini, Athens, Izmir, Messina and Sorrento. Departs May 18, 2024. Featuring chef, cookbook author and television personality Sara Moulton.
Mediterranean Fascination: 19 Days from Jerusalem to Rome aboard Riviera, overnighting in Jerusalem (Haifa) and visiting Jerusalem (Ashdod), Limassol, Rhodes, Santorini, Taormina, Naples/Pompeii, Rome, Florence/Pisa/Tuscany, Saint-Tropez, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Propriano, Cagliari, Palermo and Amalfi/Positano. Departs May 29, 2024.
Aegean Icons: 11 Days from Jerusalem to Athens aboard Vista, overnighting in Jerusalem (Haifa) and visiting Jerusalem (Ashdod), Paphos, Alanya, Marmaris, Patmos, Ephesus, Volos, Thessaloniki, Mykonos. Departs June 1, 2024.
Greco-Roman Gateway: 10 Days from Rome to Istanbul aboard Riviera, overnighting in Istanbul and visiting Sorrento/Capri, Catania, Valletta, Taranto, Katakolon, Corfu, Izmir. Departs June 17, 2024.
Yachts & Masterpieces: 24 Days from Venice (Trieste) to Athens aboard Vista, overnighting in Istanbul and visiting Korcula, Split, Kotor, Igoumenitsa, Katakolon, Taormina, Amalfi/Positano, Rome, Ajaccio, Monte Carlo, Provence, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Saint-Tropez, Florence/Pisa/Tuscany, Olbia/Porto Cervo, Naples/Pompeii, Messina and Bozcaada. Departs June 29, 2024.
Mediterranean & Beyond: 30 Days from Athens to Barcelona aboard Vista, overnighting in Istanbul and Lisbon and visiting Mykonos, Ephesus, Rhodes, Valletta, Palermo, Amalfi/Positano, Rome, Florence/Pisa/Tuscany, Monte Carlo, Provence, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Almeria, Málaga, Seville, Funchal, Santa Cruz de la Palma, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife, Agadir, Casablanca. Departs September 3, 2024.
Picturesque Rivieras: 7 Days from Monte Carlo to Barcelona aboard Riviera, visiting Florence/Pisa/Tuscany, Rome, Ajaccio, Provence, Port-Vendres and Palma de Mallorca. Departs September 4, 2024.
Timeless Turkey & Greece: 17 Days from Istanbul to Venice (Trieste) aboard Riviera, overnighting in Istanbul, and visiting Kavala/Philippi, Ephesus, Rhodes, Alanya, Bodrum, Santorini, Athens, Mykonos, Izmir, Bari, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Pula/Rovinj. Departs October 8, 2024.
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Holland America Line Leads Alaska Cruising with Most Glacier, Wildlife and Wilderness Viewing Opportunities
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The riches of the wilderness take center stage on Holland America Line's Alaska cruises as the region's natural wonders and rugged beauty unfold. With the most visits to Alaska's glaciers and more ways to see wildlife and wilderness on a shore excursion than any other cruise line, Holland America Line is weaving more than 75 years of Alaska expertise into every facet of the experience.
As the 2025 season opens for booking, Holland America Line is building on the top reasons travelers choose an Alaska cruise — to see glaciers and wildlife — by offering the most Glacier Bay permits in the cruise industry, the most glacier viewing experiences and the most opportunities to see the animals of Alaska with nearly 180 shore excursions that take guests on a wildlife and wilderness encounter.
 "Guests choose an Alaska cruise because they want to see a glacier up close and whales in the wild, and we're proud to be number-one in these areas by offering our guests more ways to experience glaciers, wildlife and wilderness than any other cruise line," said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer, Holland America Line. "As we open bookings for our 2025 season, we're offering an unmatched Alaska: Up Close experience and incentives to start planning now."
From April through October 2025, guests can embark on Holland America Line's cruises to Alaska aboard Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam. Departures are roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; roundtrip from Vancouver, Canada; or in either direction between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska.
More Glaciers for Viewing and Visiting
Every Alaska cruise includes a scenic visit to one or more of Alaska's iconic glaciers where the ships sail up to the face of the ice formations and rotate for a 360-degree view. Holland America Line has more permits to visit Glacier Bay National Park than any cruise line, and the ships also visits several others along the journey: College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier and Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm.
During Glacier Bay scenic cruising, Glacier Bay National Park Rangers visit Holland America Line ships for the day to engage with guests and talk about Alaska's most famous national park.
In addition to scenic glacier viewing from the ship, guests can get up close to glaciers on a shore excursion, including the Excursions by Catamaran: Hubbard Glacier & Enchanting Disenchantment Bay in Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm Inlet and Glacier Explorer to Sawyer Glacier, both boarded directly from the ship; Helicopter Glacier Trek in Juneau where guest land on a glacier or the Five Glaciers Seaplane tour over section of the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Ice Field; and the Wilderness, Wildlife and Glacier Experience in Anchorage.
Whales, Bears, Eagles and More.
With the most shore excursions featuring a wildlife and wilderness encounter, Holland America Line offers nearly 180 tours to see species of all kinds, including: whale watching in Juneau; Sea Otter Quest and Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear in Sitka; Wilderness Zodiac Quest in Ketchikan to go in search of bears, eagles and seals; Spasski River Wildlife and Bear Search in Icy Strait Point; Glacier Point Wilderness Safari showcasing whales, sealions and seals, and Haines Eagle Preserve Float and Wildlife Quest to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, both from Skagway.
Wildlife Experts Lead Spotting
A wildlife expert on board helps guests witness the majestic animals found in Alaska. Guests can be on the lookout for humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, moose, sea otters, caribou, black and grizzly bears, Dall's porpoise and more. The daily program highlights designated times to meet the wildlife expert on deck to go in search of the animals in their natural environment.
Holland America Line's Wildlife Spotting Guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and includes a map with the best places to see each species. Between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., wildlife sightings are announced for guest viewing.
All cruises on Westerdam roundtrip from Seattle feature a presentation by The Alaska Raptor Center at Sitka. Hosted by the wildlife expert, one of the center's Avian Care Specialists comes aboard with a raptor (eagle, hawk, owl, etc.) to share insights about Alaska's majestic birds in World Stage.
'Alaska Up Close' Immerses Guests in the Local Culture
Holland America Line's "Alaska Up Close" deeply immerses guests in the local culture with authentic onboard programming, cruise activities and award-winning shore excursions. The exclusive experiences are delivered through experts leading workshops and lectures from those who know Alaska best, EXC Talks exploring the stories of real Alaskans, tours highlighting the best of each destination and fine dining events showcasing the culinary traditions of the region.
On all Alaska cruises, a Huna Native Interpreter in historical dress comes on board during the evening stay at Juneau to introduce guests to the history of the Tlingit people with "Native Voices: Stories of the Tlingit People." On the culinary side, guests will find cocktails featuring real glacier ice, an Alaska-themed brunch, Gold Rush dinner, seafood boils, salmon bakes and themed stations in Lido Market.
Serving Only the Freshest Sustainable Seafood
In 2022, Holland America Line was awarded Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification — making it the first cruise line to achieve this distinguished credential by serving only fresh, certified sustainable and traceable wild Alaska seafood. On any Alaska cruise, the line serves more than 2,000 pounds of Alaska salmon, 1,000 pounds of Alaska cod, 800 pounds of Alaska halibut, 500 pounds of Alaska rockfish and more. All menus highlight "Taste Alaska" by calling out region-specific dishes and fresh fish.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
17.71 |
- 8.24% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
98.76 |
- 4.30% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
20.76 |
- 7.82% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Some of the inside cabins P&O's s/s Canberra had an interesting feature that made them brighter than inside cabins on most other cruise ships. What was the feature?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What was the inspiration for the distinctive funnel paint job on the ships of Carnival Cruise Line?
Answer - Carnival used the new logo employed by CP Ships (formerly Canadian Pacific) slightly amended to form the letter "C". CP Ships sued Carnival for copyright infringement and won. The design was amended to its current form.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - July 10, 2023
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Cunard Releases 1920s-style Queen Anne cutaway to Mark 183rd Birthday
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Cunard unveiled a remarkable new cutaway image of its newest ship, Queen Anne, which pays homage to the luxury cruise line's uniquely rich heritage.
Released yesterday to celebrate its 183rd birthday, the intricate animation has been designed in the style of Cunard's iconic advertising posters from the 1920s, offering a playful glimpse inside the ship's interiors.
 This magnificent cutaway encapsulates the essence of playful luxury that guests will experience onboard our newest ship
Artist Dominik Bulka was commissioned to create the masterpiece, painstakingly hand-sketching each element of the design, before electronically stitching the constituent scenes into a single digital image.
The cutaway illustrates many of Cunard's signature venues and public spaces, including the iconic Grand Lobby and Golden Lion pub, as well as brand new concepts for Queen Anne, such as the exhilarating new show bar inspired by historic, bold electric light installations – Bright Lights Society.
But eagle-eyed observers will also notice a number of weird and wonderful depictions that reflect Cunard folklore. For example, on deck one, you'll find two bellhops feeding a hippo in a swimming pool in a mischievous reference to a well-known transatlantic crossing.
In 1963, on board Pavia, there was a very special guest that required a cold shower every hour during the day. Three-year-old Jimmy was a hippopotamus making his way from Naples to Chester Zoo; in fact, he travelled on deck with an awning over his cage to protect him from the sun.
Elsewhere, famous faces have been woven into the cutaway – from past guests such as David Bowie and Nelson Mandela, to the man who founded the iconic luxury cruise line, Sir Samuel Cunard.
Cunard is world-renowned for sailing guests around the world in comfort, style, and luxury, and with this latest artistic endeavour, the luxury cruise line is taking inspiration from its past to define the next chapter of its future.
The image places an emphasis on the quirky and unexpected, with flying bellhops just one surreal representation of the immersive experiences that can be found onboard a Cunard ship. The illustration also details the major venues onboard, and where guests can find them.
A number of limited-edition cutaway posters will be created ahead of Queen Anne's maiden voyage on May 3, 2024.
"We are incredibly excited about the launch of Queen Anne and this magnificent cutaway image brilliantly encapsulates the essence of playful luxury that guests will experience onboard our newest ship," said Matt Gleaves, VP, Commercial, Cunard North America. "Cunard guests receive an exclusive experience sailing aboard our fantastic fleet of Queens and we are always keen to showcase the unique touches that make our voyages one-of-a-kind. Whether it be posting your mail in the middle of the Atlantic or marvelling at art etched by royalty, you are sure to create unforgettable moments with Cunard."
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Seabourn's New Expedition Vessel Seabourn Pursuit Offers Extraordinary 'Home Away From Home' Feel
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Seabourn wants guests to savor their home away from home enroute to new experiences aboard Seabourn Pursuit, the second of two purpose-built expedition vessels in its fleet. Set to launch Summer 2023, Seabourn Pursuit will welcome travelers with 132 luxurious oceanfront veranda suites. Available in an array of layouts and dimensions, all accommodations create the elevated ambiance that is a hallmark of every Seabourn travel experience.
For this new expedition vessel, iconic hospitality atelier Tihany Design - led by Founder Adam D. Tihany and Managing Partner Alessia Genova - fashioned sumptuous interiors to create a modern ambiance that combines incomparable comfort, relaxed elegance and sophisticated ruggedness. The color palettes, elemental materials and tactile textures resonate Seabourn's signature luxury and sense of ease, with custom design evident in every detail, right down to the retro style of light switches.
 "Tihany Design's latest undertaking for Seabourn is among its most thoughtfully conceived and executed, creating an ultra-luxury atmosphere that pairs well with the expedition feel guests experience throughout Seabourn Pursuit," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "Guests will certainly recognize their Seabourn 'home away from home' while being surrounded by elements that bring a spirit of adventure and discovery as they visit some of the most beautiful and remote locations of the world."
Suite Details and Design
Seabourn Pursuit houses 132 individual oceanfront suites in 12 categories, all with private ocean-view verandas. Accommodations feature a comfortable living area, queen-size bed or two twin beds, walk-in closet, interactive TV with music and movies, fully stocked bar and refrigerator, writing desk with personalized stationery, and makeup vanity. Spacious marble guest bathrooms have a full tub, separate shower, and luxury beauty products.
Each suite also has a built-in heated jacket wardrobe, where guests can hang their wet outdoor Complimentary PolarShield Parka and other gear to dry quickly once they return from adventures off the ship or warm their coats before heading out on a cool morning.
Additional in-suite amenities include a personal safe, plush robes, slippers, and hair dryer. Bedding is outfitted with a luxurious custom-built mattress, comfortable cotton linens, fluffy all-season duvet, and firm or soft pillows as per guest preference. The in-suite bar is replenished with a selection of beverages and complimentary wines and/or spirits as per guest requests; and guests can take advantage of the complimentary PressReader app for access to favorite newspapers and magazines via personal phone or tablet; and SWAROVSKI OPTIK binoculars to use to view natural beauty from afar.
The suites' exclusive custom furniture collection was developed by Tihany Design and produced by renowned Italian furniture manufacturer Roda, which combines authentic Italian craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology and innovation. Framed in wood and metal and incorporating textured fabric and leather, the bespoke furnishings radiate luxurious handcrafted ruggedness for a distinctive identity, setting a new precedent for next-generation design in the expedition cruise market.
Natural curvilinear arch design elements and parchment-inspired wall panels are among the many details that reflect bygone maritime craftsmanship; digitally printed wall laminate material mimics wood with alluring granular detail; heated flooring with wooden-look tiles; and custom bedside panels feature toggle switches, an analog clock, and a fold-away reading lamp. To complement, carpeting displays organic shapes, Premium bedding and accoutrements foster supreme relaxation, with custom-designed blankets and finely textured throws on couches produced from the highest quality sustainably sourced material.
Suite Categories
Seabourn Pursuit's suite categories and specifications include:
• Veranda Suites – Veranda Suites are the most abundant accommodation on Seabourn Pursuit featuring luxuries for guests to make them their home away from home. Veranda suites include a separate seating area with a coffee/dining table for two, which is ideal for in-suite dining at any time of day. Each suite has an approximate total space of 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m.), including a private furnished veranda of 78 sq. ft. (7 sq. m.). There are four categories of Veranda Suites available, and sizes vary by suite.
• Veranda Spa Suites – Located on Deck 7, Seabourn Pursuit's two Veranda Spa Suites are the same size and have the same layouts and amenities as Veranda Suites. They also include additional in-suite spa amenities and access to a spa concierge service.
• Panorama Veranda Suites – Available only on the expedition ships, the Panorama Veranda Suites feature a semi-circular living area with comfortable seating and include expansive floor-to-ceiling windows which provide guests a breathtaking perspective of the world outside. The bathroom features a separate shower and large soaking tub placed next to a window, providing relaxing views of the private, furnished veranda and scenic outdoor landscapes. The suites are located on Decks 5, 6, 7 and 8, and are 420 sq. ft. (39 sq. m.), including a private, furnished veranda of 86 sq. ft. (8 sq. m.), though suite sizes vary.
• Penthouse Suites – Located on Deck 8, each of Seabourn Pursuit's Penthouse Suites affords a sophisticated environment which includes a living area with a dining table for two to enjoy in-suite dining and large windows that bring in plenty of natural light. The Penthouse Suites are approximately 527 sq. ft. (49 sq. m.), including a furnished veranda of 97 sq. ft. (9 sq. m.).
• Penthouse Spa Suite – Perfect for travelers desiring the space of a penthouse and access to the onboard spa and wellness facilities, this suite features the same amenities as the Penthouse Suite along with added in-suite spa amenities. Located on Deck 7, this suite stretches 635 sq. ft. (59 sq. m.), including a private, furnished veranda of 205 sq. ft. (19 sq. m.).
• Grand Wintergarden Suites – Set on Decks 7 and 8, the Grand Wintergarden Suites are truly top of the line as they are two suites combined into one. The two-level suites are spacious perfection for guests and feature a comfortable living area, dining table for four, second bedroom, separate guest bath and pantry with a wet bar stocked with a customized selection of spirits.
A sculptured staircase leading to the upper level takes guests to the master bedroom positioned to face expansive windows, allowing guests to soak in the views. The upper level also features an expansive wall of closets, along with advanced technology including a roll-up LG OLED TV that tucks away to preserve the views of the world outside. Guests will find a separate walk-in closet adjacent to the five-piece bathroom complete with a whirlpool spa tub and separate shower. Wintergarden suite guests will also be able to enjoy wildlife and vista spotting using a Swarovski ATX Interior spotting scope.
These suites are 1,399 sq. ft. (130 sq. m.), including two furnished verandas totaling 205 sq. ft. (19 sq. m.).
• Wintergarden Suites include the same features as the Grand Wintergarden without the additional bedroom and full bathroom on the lower level. They are approximately 1,044 sq. ft. (97 sq. m.), including a private furnished veranda of 129 sq. ft. (12 sq. m.).
• Owner's Suites – Perched above the bow on Deck 7, the pair of Owner's Suites lavishes guests with a comfortable living area that includes high-definition TV, writing desk, and dining table for two. A glass door leads to a curved veranda with sun loungers and a table for four, making it an ideal place to share stories with fellow guests.
The separate bedroom features a queen-sized bed, a large window, makeup vanity, and a walk-in closet. The five-piece bathroom is designed with multiple doors that can create a half-bath, and also features a separate shower and bathtub.
The suites are 1,023 sq. ft. (95 sq. m.) of space, including a private veranda of 484 sq. ft. (45 sq. m.).
• Signature Suites – Set at the stern of Seabourn Pursuit, Signature Suites features a foyer entry opening to an inviting living area, dining table for four, guest bath, and pantry with wet bar, while a series of large windows wash the suite with natural light. The separate bedroom features a queen-sized bed, makeup vanity, generous closet space, and a glass door leading to a large, curved veranda that includes its own canopied whirlpool spa tub, sun loungers, sofa, and chairs. A five-piece bathroom with a separate shower and tub rounds out the suite.
The suites are approximately 1,377 sq. ft. (128 sq. m.) of space, including a 592 sq. ft. (55 sq. m.) furnished veranda.
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MSC Meraviglia to Sail from New York to New England and Canada in 2024
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MSC Cruises’ autumn schedule offers stunning itineraries off the east coast of North America and up to Canada, promising guests a truly unique cruise experience aboard MSC Meraviglia. Guests can embark on an unforgettable journey this September and October for 10- or 11-night cruises sailing from New York.
 Renowned for incredible scenery during the fall, New England and Canada offer guests the perfect opportunity to witness the changing of the seasons as they visit a long list of picturesque ports. Whether it’s seeing world-famous historical sites, admiring the incredible landscapes and spectacular vibrant hues of autumn leaves, or savoring the famed cuisines of the East Coast, these unique itineraries have something for everyone.
While sailing the north Atlantic coast, guests can make the most of MSC Meraviglia’s array of exceptional amenities and varied onboard experiences, including the ship’s wide range of gourmet dining options, world-class entertainment, award-winning facilities for families and children of all ages, and luxurious spa and wellness, all while relaxing in comfortable accommodations designed for every season.
MSC Meraviglia is homeporting year-round in New York and will also offer select cruises to New England and Canada in 2024.
MSC Meravalgia fall itinerary highlights include:
TAKE A BITE OF THE BIG APPLE
MSC Meraviglia’s itinerary will set sail from New York City, offering guests the chance to visit the city that never sleeps and its endless unforgettable experiences. From viewing the iconic Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, marveling at the dazzling Manhattan skyscrapers, getting lost in the city’s lively neighborhoods, and visiting world-class museums, to a relaxing stroll in Central Park to witness the majestic autumn foliage, this magnificent city is a top destination any time of year.
EXPERIENCE THE ELEGANCE & CHARM OF NEWPORT
Newport, situated on the southern coast of Rhode Island, is a charming waterfront town known for its stunning architecture, historic Gilded Age mansions and beautiful scenic coastal views. The city has a variety of attractions to explore, including the historic Cliff Walk with a walking trail along the beautiful rocky shoreline, the iconic Newport Mansions, and the historic Fort Adams State Park with gorgeous views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.
WALK THROUGH AMERICA’S HISTORY AT BOSTON’S HISTORICAL SITES
Explore Boston—a modern and dynamic city full of rich culture and history. The city’s cutting-edge architecture contrasts with Boston’s famous Freedom Trail, which is lined with historic landmarks including Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States. Sports fans can visit historic Fenway Park, the oldest and most legendary stadium in Major League Baseball and home to the Red Sox.
EXPLORE NOVA SCOTIA’S NATURAL BEAUTY
Nova Scotia, Canada, is known for its charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches and captivating shorelines. Halifax, the seaside capital city of Nova Scotia, is renowned for its strong maritime heritage and provides a taste of Canada’s natural beauty. Guests can enjoy a stroll on one of world’s longest continuous waterfront boardwalks full of fantastic restaurants and a range of cultural attractions, visit the city’s impressive historical landmarks including its hilltop citadel dating back to the 18th century, or head to the small fishing village of Peggy's Cove, well-known for its picturesque red and white lighthouse, one of the most iconic and popular spots in Nova Scotia.
VISIT THE GREAT OUTDOORS OF NEW BRUNSWICK
New Brunswick, Canada’s beautiful maritime province, is a must-visit for outdoor adventures with its striking coastline, lush forests and wildlife including moose, whales and seals. Guests can explore the charming and historic port city of Saint John, located in the Bay of Fundy and home to beautiful historic streets, the nature trails of Rockwood Park and spectacular sea views.
DISCOVER THE BEST OF PORTLAND’S CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS
Portland, Maine offers a wealth of cultural attractions and beautiful views of the Atlantic coast. Travelers can explore the city’s enchanting lighthouses, historical architecture, and varied outdoor activities while enjoying some of the freshest seafood in the country. The city’s top attractions include the Old Port District, where guests can take a leisurely walk through cobblestone streets full of historic buildings. Art lovers can’t miss the Portland Museum of Art’s impressive collection, which features works from local and world-famous artists alike. The local beer and world-famous Maine lobster make for an unforgettable lunch.
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Azamara Returns to Canada and Debuts Double Night Stays with 2025 Itineraries
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Azamara has released 73 itineraries for 2025, including two brand-new voyages visiting Canada for the first time since 2017. Along with these itineraries comes the debut of double night stays, giving guests two overnights to explore one destination at their leisure.
"Azamara is known for offering more time in port with late nights and overnights, and now we are taking that even further with our new double night stays, allowing our guests plenty of time to travel further and dive deeper into each destination," said Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara.
With Azamara's new double night stays, guests can spend three days and two nights in Bordeaux, France. Due to their small size, Azamara's ships can dock in the center of the city, allowing guests to explore the stunning architecture and renowned museums, as well as the world-famous surrounding wine region. Azamara guests can also sail seven hours down the Guadalquivir River to enjoy an extended stay in the heart of Seville, Spain, where they can fully immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of Andalusia by indulging in tapas, watching authentic flamenco dancers and bullfighters, and admiring historic palaces – all at their own pace.
 "We are thrilled to return to Canada in 2025, and we're excited for our guests to experience these unique itineraries visiting lesser traveled ports in Quebec and Newfoundland as well as Iceland and Greenland," said Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara. "As demand for our Country Intensive sailings remains strong, we've also added a range of these specialty voyages across Europe for 2025, so our guests can discover smaller ports and hidden gems within a single country."
Marking the cruise line's return to the country for the first time in more than five years, Azamara's new sailings will stop in six Canadian ports, including:
• Cap-aux-Meules, Quebec (maiden port): Known as the center of the Magdalen Islands, this small fishing town boasts incredibly fresh seafood, stunning coastal trails, and over 300 species of birds.
L'Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland (maiden port): L'Anse Aux Meadows is the only authenticated Viking site in North America. Guests will be transported back 1,000 years as they explore the recreated Viking • • Encampment and discover original Norse artifacts.
• Harve Saint Pierre, Quebec (maiden port): With panoramic views and never-ending sandy beaches, Saint Pierre sits on the north shore of Quebec's Saint Lawrence River and is the gateway to the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, home to an abundance of wildlife.
Azamara's signature Country Intensive sailings continue to see high demand, making up more than half of the newly released 2025 itineraries. These specialty voyages encourage guests to dive deeper into countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Norway, Ireland, and Scotland by providing more time to discover the local culture and hidden gems. Two of the fleet's four ships will visit Greece in 2025, a destination
Azamara knows best as its ships visit more unique ports throughout the country than any other cruise line.
Azamara's 2025 itineraries include a record number of 15 golf cruises in collaboration with longtime partner PerryGolf. Golf lovers will want to book the 2025 British Isles Golf Cruise, which includes weekend attendance to the final two rounds of The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.
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P&O Cruises and Time Out Launch Exclusive New Lisbon Shore Experience
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P&O Cruises has today announced a new shore experience created in partnership with and curated by the city experts at Time Out, the global media and hospitality brand which inspires and enables people to experience the best of the city.
 On selected holidays, ‘The Flavours of Lisbon by Time Out and P&O Cruises’ will offer guests a taste of local food with a hands-on cooking class in the world-famous Time Out Market and an opportunity to discover the Baixa district’s colourful Pink Street.
The experience will begin with a walking tour through Baixa at the heart of Lisbon with its stunning architecture, famous yellow trams and Pink Street, one of Lisbon's most photo-worthy locations.
Together with local chef Miguel Mesquita, guests will then visit Time Out Market which shares the building with a centuries-old traditional food market to discover its history while shopping for all the ingredients needed for a cooking class.
At the Time Out Academy – which is Time Out Market Lisbon's cooking school – guests will then learn to prepare authentic local dishes before sitting down to enjoy the food. The cooking class is led by Miguel who is the Executive Chef of the Time Out Academy and a participant of MasterChef Portugal, winner of “Guerra dos Pratos” and has gained experience in Michelin star restaurants.
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NCL Announces Starbucks “been There” Mugs Aboard Its Ships With the Debut of Norwegian Viva
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) revealed its new series of Starbucks? “Been There” mugs, set to debut and be exclusively available aboard nine NCL ships, beginning with the launch of the groundbreaking Norwegian Viva in August 2023.
 The collectible limited-edition mugs will be exclusively sold at the Starbucks Cafes aboard Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Prima, and the soon-to-debut Norwegian Viva, the second ship of NCL’s elevated Prima Class.
Each mug’s design showcases unique elements of the respective NCL ship, including Norwegian Bliss’ magnificent whale tail hull art designed by famed ocean conservationist Wyland, the exhilarating dueling slides aboard Norwegian Prima, and the towering zipline at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas. With this one-of-a-kind memento, guests are able to capture the essence of their time on board by bringing a piece of their experience back home.
Norwegian Cruise Line was the first in the industry to offer the Starbucks experience across all ships. Through the extended partnership, licensed stores and “We Proudly Serve” cafes are available across all 18 of the Company’s ships. Starbucks handcrafted espresso beverages are also available at all cafes, main dining room and specialty restaurants, with select ships offering self-pour coffee stations.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
19.30 |
+ 1.79% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
103.20 |
+ 0.00% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
22.52 |
+ 2.78% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the inspiration for the distinctive funnel paint job on the ships of Carnival Cruise Line?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
This week we have another visual Cruise Trivia Question. The picture below was featured in a cruise brochure from the 1960's. Name the ship.
Answer - The picture in this week's trivia contest is the SS Rotterdam (Rotterdam V) just outside the Sky Room on the open deck at the top of the ship.
courtesy of Bill Forsstrom, Cincinnati,OH
Cruise News - July 3, 2023
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Luis Fonsi Named Godfather of Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Ship, Norwegian Viva
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced today that GRAMMY nominated, and five-time Latin GRAMMY winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer, Luis Fonsi, will serve as the godfather of its newest ship, Norwegian Viva, the second ship of the Brand’s groundbreaking Prima Class. The ship will be christened in Miami before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico this fall.
Best known for his extensive list of radio hits including the award-winning, global chart-topping hit, “Despacito,” which was featured on Billboard’s “Hot Latin Song” list for a record-breaking 56 consecutive weeks, Puerto Rican-born Fonsi will fulfill the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming Norwegian Viva at the Nov. 28, 2023 christening ceremony in Miami, the “Cruise Capital of the World.” The “Live it Up!” theme of Norwegian Viva will continue throughout the evening, with a lineup of leading Latin entertainers joining Fonsi, including The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native, Marcello Hernandez; and singer, Pedro Capó, all of which will deliver exclusive performances throughout the night.
"We are thrilled to welcome Latin music icon Luis Fonsi to the NCL family as Godfather of Norwegian Viva and to join us as we christen our newest ship," said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. "Miami, our hometown, is immersed in Latin culture, and we want to celebrate Norwegian Viva’s debut with an infusion of Latin talent headlined by Luis. As a native Puerto Rican, who is also based in Miami, he brings people together from around the world with his energy, positivity and music, making him the perfect complement to the vibrant energy of Norwegian Viva. We cannot wait for him to join us as we celebrate this milestone moment later this year.”
On Nov. 28, 2023, Luis Fonsi will officiate the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle on the ship’s bow to bid the vessel and its travelers good fortune on their voyage, a fundamental nautical tradition customary for any ship launch. After completing its christening voyage, Norwegian Viva will be the newest ship to homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico upon arrival on Dec. 15, 2023. It will offer a variety of seven-day Caribbean voyages through April 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, before returning for a summer season of cruises to Europe from Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; and Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice (Trieste), Italy.
“I am so honored to be named Godfather of NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva, and look forward to sharing her with the amazing people of Puerto Rico, a community that truly represents the spirit of ‘live it up’” said Luis Fonsi, award-winning global artist. “Growing up on an island, the ocean plays such an important part in my life, and there is nowhere else I’d rather be. Cruising provides such an incredible vacation experience, and I cannot wait to christen this incredible ship and to introduce her to the world.”
Norwegian Viva is the second of six vessels in the company’s groundbreaking Prima Class and sister ship to the award-winning Norwegian Prima. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize the guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world-class cuisine, the brand’s most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack. Norwegian Viva features many of the outstanding onboard experiences that makes the Prima Class in a league of its own including Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL’s industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar. Debuting in August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list-worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December 2023 for a season of Caribbean itineraries.
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Celebrity Cruises Introduces New Caribbean Program
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Celebrity Cruisesannounced this week a revamped Caribbean program for the Summer 2024 season. Starting next April, sun chasers, beach lovers and relaxation seekers, will all be able to enjoy the Caribbean like never before on board two award-winning ships, Celebrity BeyondSM and Celebrity Reflection, as they begin to call the tropics home. Not only does the new program double the brand's number of year-round Caribbean sailings and introduces the first weekend itineraries, but both ships will now offer guests with the exciting opportunity to experience Perfect Day at CocoCay for the first time in history.
 "Our customers are consistently asking for more opportunities to visit this stunning region year-round, have more weekend options so they can getaway easier, and have expressed a desire for a private island destination. By introducing this new program, we can meet this demand and offer something new and historic to all our guests," says Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. "Perfect Day is a destination like no other, and we are honored to add it to our portfolio."
Perfect Day at CocoCay:
Located in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay is a vibrant island paradise and one of the Caribbean's most exclusive destinations. Offering the best of beach-side bliss and sun-soaked excitement, guests can find peak relaxation or the ultimate thrill – whatever their speed and definition of the perfect day means. Travelers can enjoy miles of pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, take a dip in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, swim up to the bar for a refreshing tropical cocktail, experience the ultimate in relaxation and privacy at Coco Beach Club that features a heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, and 20 exclusive overwater cabanas. Hideaway Beach, a new offering debuting in January, will offer an adults only paradise, with private cabanas and a new signature food outlet. If you are eager to get the adrenaline flowing on North America's tallest waterslide, or soar 450 feet above the island in Up, Up and Away — an epic balloon ride that provides breathtaking panoramic views— Perfect Day has something for everyone.
Experience the newest Edge Series ship year-round:
Sailing out of South Florida, Celebrity Beyond, will offer a mix of six and eight-night journeys, which visit incredible destinations like Grand Cayman, The Bahamas, Mexico, and the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, along with Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Launched in April 2022 in Europe and in November 2022 in North America, Celebrity Beyond is the newest member of the brand's revolutionary and modern Edge Series that reimagined what cruising could be. Signature offerings of the series include more than 30 food and beverage options, an outward-facing design that maximizes outdoor spaces and panoramic ocean views, world-class production shows, and sleek staterooms that range from Infinite Verandas which open with the push of a button to welcome the outdoor in, to the wellbeing-focused AquaClass, and the ultimate in luxury with the first-ever two-story suites known as the Edge Villas.
Get away to the Caribbean on any weekend of the year:
For the first time, travelers will have the opportunity to getaway every weekend on Celebrity Reflection's new three and four-night itineraries. From Friday to Monday, travelers will have the opportunity to break free from their routines and recharge in the Caribbean. Nearly 40 itineraries will offer the chance to enjoy Perfect Day, while also taking guests to the picturesque streets of Key West, and the white sand beaches of Bimini. These two destinations are renowned for their laidback lifestyle, allowing only one ship per day.
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Carnival Cruise Line Hosts Grand Bahama Celebration
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Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with the Ministry of Grand Bahama, hosted a Golden Jubilee Breakfast today to celebrate the 50th Independence of The Bahamas. Approximately 100 community members attended the event which took place aboard Carnival Legend that is docked in Freeport and honored present and former parliamentarians of Grand Bahama.
 “Carnival offers our heartfelt congratulations to The Bahamas on this milestone anniversary and we are proud to have been operating in the country for the last 50 plus years,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We could not think of a better way to celebrate than with the Ministry of Grand Bahama as we work together to bring Carnival’s cruise port destination to life, which will bring millions of visitors to experience the beauty and culture of Grand Bahama.”
Among distinguished leaders present at the celebration were the Prime Minister of The Bahamas Hon. Philip Davis and the Minister for Grand Bahama Hon. Ginger Moxey. Thirty-five Grand Bahama parliamentarians were also presented with awards to recognize their service.
“As we reflect on the 50th anniversary of our independence, I am so excited about the road ahead for Grand Bahama,” said Minister Moxey. “Working with partners like Carnival, we are rebuilding our economy and bringing new opportunities to our residents. We say a big thank you to Carnival for continuing to be a part of this community, holding this anniversary celebration here in Grand Bahama and bringing a new cruise port to our island.”
The Golden Jubilee Breakfast took place as work continues to advance on the Carnival Grand Bahama cruise port destination. Representing an investment of $200 million, the port destination will offer guests a uniquely Bahamian experience with exciting features and amenities, including a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach, a nature reserve and an interior pool feature, as well as Bahamian-operated retail, food and beverage options for Carnival guests to enjoy.
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Royal Caribbean Opens 2024-25 Vacations From Shanghai, Marking Return to China
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Vacationers setting their sights on exploring the Far East can seize the day today. Families and friends can now book 4- and 7-night vacations on Royal Caribbean International’s Spectrum of the Seas and be one of the first to cruise to international destinations on Asia’s largest and most innovative ship in 2024-2025. The cruise line’s highly anticipated return to China is set for April 2024, when Spectrum sails from Shanghai to popular getaway destinations like Fukuoka, Okinawa, Nagasaki and Osaka, Japan. The all-new vacations are open for bookings on the cruise line’s website.
 "Chinese vacationers have been eagerly awaiting to wander and make memories throughout Asia again, and we are delighted to make that possible as the first international cruise line to open for bookings and cruise in China. And what better way to mark Royal Caribbean’s homecoming than with the return of Spectrum of the Seas, a ship that was specifically designed for Asia,” said Dr. Zinan Liu, senior vice president and chairman, Asia, Royal Caribbean Group. “Today, we can proudly proclaim, 'We are back in China!'’
Specially designed for Asia and travelers of all ages, Spectrum features a lineup of restaurants and entertainment with regionally inspired menus and shows, like Hot Pot, Teppanyaki and Sichuan Red, as well as karaoke lounge Star Moment, Showgirls in the Royal Theater and Silk Road in the one-of-a-kind Two70, where artistry, robots and technology combine to create jaw-dropping performances. Alongside the familiar comforts are adventures only on Royal Caribbean, including skydiving on the RipCord by iFly, scaling more than 300 feet above the ocean on North Star, the all-glass observation capsule, and bumper cars and sports in the largest indoor activity space at sea, SeaPlex.
And when it comes to luxury, the ship’s exclusive suite enclave has it covered. The luxe experiences include everything from a two-level, 2,809-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite that features an in-suite slide and accommodates up to 11 for the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, to private dining, shopping and more.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
18.96 |
+ 29.86% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
103.20 |
+ 6.13% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
21.91 |
+ 18.24% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
This week we have another visual Cruise Trivia Question. The picture below was featured in a cruise brochure from the 1960's. Name the ship.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Before selecting the former France for conversion into the cruise ship Norway, NCL examined three other 900 ft + former liners. Name at least two of the three former liners they did not select
Answer - The 3 ships looked at by NCL were: 1-Michelangelo, 2-Raffaello, 3-United States. All 3 were unacceptable to NCL due to increased crew costs as a result of of each ship having split engine rooms and thus requiring twice as many engine room staff.
courtesy of Chris Vincent
Cruise News - June 26, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Introduces New Value Promise Program
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Oceania Cruises will offer its guests simply MORE than ever before, with free roundtrip airfare, free airport transfers, free shore excursions and a free beverage package for all guests, for all new reservations beginning July 1, 2023, for sailings departing October 1, 2023, or later. Created to elevate the guest experience, the newly unveiled value promise has been designed to create long-lasting memories in enticing destinations and provide access to exquisite indulgences.
 The brand's new simply MORE value promise means travelers receive the greatest value in luxury cruising, with virtually everything they desire included in their voyage fare: a hassle-free arrival and departure with free roundtrip airfare and free airport transfers; more unforgettable travel experiences with a generous shore excursion credit of up to $1,600 per stateroom to be spent on tours of their choice; and more occasions to celebrate with a comprehensive beverage package available during lunch and dinner featuring dozens of vintage Champagnes, premium wines and international beers to choose from.
The extraordinary new level of inclusions sits alongside the line's always included amenities: gourmet dining featuring The Finest Cuisine at Sea with no reservation fee or cover charge at specialty restaurants; fine teas and coffees, soft drinks and still and sparkling Vero Water; 24-hour room service; unlimited WiFi; and fitness classes.
"Thanks to the launch of simply MORE, our guests will enjoy even more value, more choice and more convenience than ever before," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Over the past 20 years, we have continued to adapt and evolve to the wants and needs of our valued trade partners and guests. We are always seeking to enhance the Oceania Cruises experience and raise the bar in offering the best value in luxury cruising. So, we asked our key audiences, guests and travel partners, what they wanted, and that was simplicity, choice and value. Through our new simply MORE value promise, they now have all three.
"For me, the cornerstone of this exciting new value promise is the generous credit offered to every guest to be spent on shore excursions of their choice. Oceania Cruises is renowned for our imaginative and immersive itineraries, journeying to every part of the globe, which are enhanced even further by our industry-leading array of enriching adventures ashore."
Oceania Cruises offers more than 8,000 immersive, educational and unique tour choices in its 600-plus ports of call. Travelers can choose to explore iconic bustling cities, lesser-known gems and tranquil islands in the same sailing thanks to the line's destination-intensive itineraries.
Del Rio continued: "The simply MORE shore excursion credit can be applied to any and all of our tours, from witnessing an active volcano from a helicopter in Montserrat and learning how to tend and herd sheep at a shepherd school in Northern Spain on one of our Go Local tours to enjoying an insider's view of iconic modernistic buildings in the Finnish capital of Helsinki on a Beyond Blueprints excursion, which takes travelers behind the scenes of landmark buildings with an architectural guide."
Shore excursion credit amounts vary by voyage length, from $600 per stateroom for an itinerary of seven to nine days, to $1,600 per stateroom on sailings of 31 to 35 days. The credit may be redeemed against all excursions, offering unparalleled destination experiences including Food & Wine Trails Tours and Culinary Discovery Tours™ crafted for culinary connoisseurs, sustainability-focused Go Green Tours as well as luxurious excursions with a private car and driver, to name a few.
The new simply MORE value promise, which replaces OLife Choice, includes a generous beverage package featuring free premium-label Champagnes and wines, and more than 20 American and international beers, during lunch and dinner.
"Our guests appreciate fine food and fine wine, and we have always included all gourmet specialty dining. Now we are thrilled to be able to offer them a generous array of wines – not just house pours – to choose from, plus Champagnes and beers to enjoy too. With over three dozen wine choices on offer, and a broad range of beers as well as premium-label sparkling wines and Champagnes, there is something to suit every palate," said Del Rio.
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Carnival Corporation Reports Second Quarter 2023 Earnings
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) reports second quarter 2023 earnings and sets sights on 2026 SEA Change Program.
Carnival Corporation & plc's Chief Executive Officer Josh Weinstein commented, "We reached a meaningful inflection point for revenue this quarter, with net yields surpassing 2019's strong levels, and we achieved positive operating income, cash from operations and adjusted free cash flow."
 Weinstein continued, "We are already executing on our strategy to grow revenue by taking up ticket prices, even while maintaining record onboard spending levels, building occupancy and growing capacity."
Weinstein added, "Based on continued strength in pricing, we delivered outperformance in the second quarter and raised our expectation for revenue in the second half, which coupled with the interest expense benefit we are capturing from deleveraging will bring another $275 million dollars to the bottom line for the year."
Weinstein noted, "With bookings and customer deposits hitting all-time highs, we are clearly gaining momentum on an upward trajectory. We are focused on the durable revenue growth and margin improvement that will deliver on our SEA Change Program and propel us on the path to delevering and investment grade leverage metrics."
Second Quarter 2023 Results and Statistical Information
• Operating income for the second quarter of 2023 was $120 million, turning positive for the first time since the resumption of guest cruise operations and marking a significant milestone.
• Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of 2023 was $681 million, at the high end of the March guidance range of $600 million to $700 million.
• Record second quarter revenue of $4.9 billion.
• While gross margin yields were down compared to 2019, Carnival said that it achieved a significant milestone of net yields in constant currency surpassing 2019 levels, above March guidance by 3.2% in constant currency (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below).
• Cruise costs per available lower berth day ("ALBD") increased 8.3% as compared to the second quarter of 2019.
• In constant currency, adjusted cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below) increased 13.5% compared to the second quarter of 2019 and were above the high end of March guidance primarily due to the timing of expenses between the quarters. Costs were higher as compared to 2019 as a result of higher dry-dock related expenses, higher advertising investments to drive revenue for 2023 and beyond, incentive compensation increases reflecting expected improvements in the company's current and long-term performance, as well as partially mitigating the impacts of a high inflation environment.
• Total customer deposits reached an all-time high of $7.2 billion (as of May 31, 2023), surpassing the previous record of $6.0 billion (as of May 31, 2019) by over $1 billion, driven by strong demand, bundled package offerings and pre-cruise sales, and a 26% increase compared to the prior quarter.
Bookings
Carnival said that it saw continued acceleration of demand, with total bookings made during the quarter reaching a new all-time high for all future sailings. Booking volumes for the second quarter exceeded the first quarter's booking volumes, which was the previous record high.
Weinstein noted, "Our momentous wave period, typically a first quarter event, started in record breaking fashion at the end of the fourth quarter, set a record in the first quarter, actually accelerated in the second quarter and has continued into the third quarter. Booking volumes have been tremendous and we are gaining momentum with favorable pricing trends, which reflects improved commercial execution and returns on our advertising investments. The booking lead times for our North America and Australia ("NAA") segment are now further out than we have ever seen, while lead times for our Europe segment continue to lengthen and are now within 10 percent of 2019 levels, which is an improvement of 10 points from the last quarter. In fact, our European brands' bookings taken this past quarter for second half 2023 sailings for European deployments achieved double digit percentage increases in both volume and price compared to 2019. Clearly the strength of our portfolio of world class brands is now shifting into high gear."
Carnival said that it's cumulative advanced booked position for the remainder of 2023 is at higher ticket prices in constant currency, despite headwinds from the loss of St. Petersburg as a marquee destination due to the suspension of cruises to Russia (normalized for future cruise credits), as compared to strong 2019 pricing and a booked occupancy position that is near the high end of the historical range. (Carnival said that it 's current booking trends are compared to booking trends for 2019 as it is the most recent full year of guest cruise operations.)
Aligned with the company's yield management strategy, and while still early, the cumulative advanced booked position for full year 2024 is above the high end of the historical range at strong prices.
2023 Outlook
For the full year 2023, Carnival said that it expects:
• Adjusted EBITDA of $4.10 billion to $4.25 billion, above March guidance's range and with a midpoint increase of $175 million
• Includes approximately $0.5 billion unfavorable impact from fuel price and currency compared to 2019
• Continued sequential improvement in each quarter in adjusted EBITDA per ALBD as compared to 2019, driven by maintaining net per diems above 2019 levels while closing the gap in occupancy to 2019 levels (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below)
• Occupancy of 100% or higher
• Net per diems of 5.5% to 6.5% (in constant currency) two and a half points higher than March guidance, based on the acceleration of its strong demand profile
• Adjusted cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD (in constant currency) one and a half points higher than March guidance, due to a slower expected ramp down in inflationary pressures than previously estimated, incentive compensation increases reflecting expected improvements in the company's current and long-term performance and continued increases in advertising investments
For the third quarter of 2023, Carnival said that it expects:
• Adjusted EBITDA of $2.05 billion to $2.15 billion, a significant improvement compared to the second quarter of 2023 and adjusted net income of $0.95 billion to $1.05 billion
• Occupancy of 107% or higher
Carnival said that it expects net yields compared to 2019 (in constant currency) to be positive for the second half of the year, despite the headwinds from the loss of St. Petersburg as a marquee destination due to the suspension of cruises to Russia.
SEA Change Program
Carnival Corporation & plc is introducing its SEA Change Program, a set of key performance targets designed to reflect the achievement of important strategic goals over a three-year period ending in 2026, including:
• Sustainability - More than 20% reduction in carbon intensity compared to 2019, improving upon the company's industry leading fuel-efficiency and pulling forward its stated 2030 carbon intensity reduction goal by several years
• EBITDA - 50% increase in adjusted EBITDA per ALBD compared to 2023 June guidance, representing the highest level in almost two decades
• Adjusted ROIC - 12% adjusted Return on Invested Capital ("ROIC"), more than doubling adjusted ROIC from 2023 to 2026, and representing the highest level in almost two decades. Adjusted ROIC excludes goodwill and intangibles to compare against historical performance (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below)
By the end of 2026, Carnival said that it is expecting to approach investment grade leverage metrics.
Carnival said that it's targets are built on measured net capacity growth of less than 2.5% compounded annually from 2023. To achieve these three-year targets, the company will continue with its focus across the portfolio on a range of initiatives to drive net yield growth while maintaining its industry leading cost base and fuel efficiency to continue to improve margins and grow adjusted free cash flow, which Carnival said that it believes will enable further debt reduction over time.
Weinstein noted, "These financial targets are anchored on optimizing capital allocation through measured capacity growth and will set our course back to strong profitability and investment grade leverage metrics. We are gaining momentum with continued strength in demand. We are excited about all the opportunities ahead and the potential to create outsized value for our shareholders as we work towards our 2026 targets."
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Holland America Line Introduces New 'National Geographic Day Tours' to Mediterranean Cruises
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Expanding its reputation for immersive travel experiences, Holland America Line has started operating "National Geographic Day Tours" that allow guests to connect more deeply, and in a more sustainable way, with destinations in the Mediterranean. The exclusive shore excursions were developed with National Geographic, a world leader in geography, cartography and exploration.
 "We are continually looking for enriching and transformative experiences for our guests..."
Beginning this summer, guests sailing on Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam can participate in National Geographic Day Tours that allow them to discover powerful female figures in Kusadasi, Turkey; experience a day in the life of a marine biologist in Naples, Italy; learn about organic honeybee farms in Rhodes, Greece; and meet local families in Santorini, Greece. Each tour is led by a National Geographic trained guide.
"We are continually looking for enriching and transformative experiences for our guests and the new National Geographic Day Tours are not only immersive, but provide exclusive access and hands-on experiences," said Carole Biencourt, vice president overseeing shore tour experience for Holland America Line. "We are pleased to offer them to guests across our Mediterranean itineraries that visit these ports and will look to expand the program in the near future."
Guests on select sailings in the Mediterranean can now book National Geographic tours online or through a travel advisor.
National Geographic Tours
• "A Day in the Life of a Marine Biologist" in Naples, Italy
Visit the oldest aquarium in Europe along with the Darwin Dohrn Museum (DoDaM), the world's first marine biodiversity research laboratory, where more than 20 Nobel Laureates studied and work on marine biology conservation projects in Naples, and learn about preserving marine turtles and the grey sharks of Lampione Island.
• "Meet the Locals in Santorini" in Santorini, Greece
Spend a day in the homes of two Santorini families and hear their stories of life on the island while tasting regional wine, cheese, vegetables and more. See the iconic, blue-domed church Panagia Kalamiotissa and visit Santo Winery to taste and pair Santorini's unique wine while enjoying panoramic views of the caldera.
• "Influential Women in Turkey: From Past to Present" in Kusadasi, Turkey
Explore powerful female figures who have influenced the local Turkish society through the ages, from ancient civilizations to modern times with visits to the Temple Artemis and House of the Virgin Mary on the hill above Ephesus. Finish the tour with a culinary journey guided by a local chef during an exclusive pairing menu at Yedi Bilgeler, a winery that has cultivated 2000-year-old vines.
• "The Fascinating World of Bees" in Rhodes, Greece
Discover why honeybees are among the most important living organisms on the planet. Uncover eye-opening ecological facts, sample local honey varieties, and try your hand at honey extraction at the Bee Museum of Rhodes.
The new National Geographic Day Tours are available on seven-day to 14-day itineraries departing from Trieste (Venice), Italy; Piraeus (Athens), Greece and Barcelona, Spain with stops in Rhodes, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Santorini and Naples.
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Princess Cruises Unveils New Princess Perfect Weddings at Sea
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Twenty-five years after hosting the first modern wedding at sea, Princess Cruises today unveiled an exciting new line-up of wedding packages and announced TV host and bridal designer Randy Fenoli as Brand Ambassador for Love and Romance, a role which includes hosting a bridal fashion themed cruise in December 2023 and developing a signature wedding package exclusive to The Love Boat.
New Princess Perfect Weddings create unforgettable moments by offering packages tailored for couples seeking unique and romantic ways to say "I do," including grand ceremonies in The Love Boat's picturesque piazza as well as outside deck areas that offer breathtaking venues with stunning ocean views, providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic ceremony, at a price significantly lower compared to land-based venues.
 "Twenty-five years ago, Princess set the standard for weddings at sea, and with the help of Randy Fenoli, the most trusted source in the bridal industry, we're doing it again with our new Princess Perfect Weddings packages, evolving our offerings to create unparalleled experiences for couples and their loved ones, all at tremendous value," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "These new packages let couples combine their dream wedding with an unforgettable voyage to picturesque destinations, to celebrate their special day in the most extraordinary ways imaginable."
Princess Perfect Weddings offer couples a range of options, ensuring that every proposal, wedding ceremony and vow renewal vision can be realized, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. The first phase of new packages features at-sea options, with more packages, including a signature Randy Fenoli Weddings package, as well as Weddings Ashore, to be announced later this year.
Princess Cruises also announced that Fenoli will host a bridal fashion themed cruise aboard a seven-day Western Caribbean voyage on Regal Princess embarking in Galveston on December 3. The Randy Fenoli Bridal Fashion Themed Cruise at Sea will offer meet and greets, signature events, and even wedding gown consultations with the celebrity bridal designer.
"Being named Love and Romance Ambassador for Princess Cruises is an incredible honor, and I'm beyond excited to explore new ways to weave enchanting moments of romance that reinforce and expand The Love Boat legacy," said Fenoli. "Our December Themed Cruise is going to be a celebration of all things bridal, and no matter their shape, their budget or type of wedding, we're going to help match all of our brides-to-be with the perfect dress."
With all Princess Perfect Weddings performed at sea, ship captains serve as the ceremony officiant and all packages include a dedicated wedding specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their wedding package according to their unique vision and requirements. From selecting the perfect venue to arranging decorations, flowers, and photography, every detail is handled to ensure a seamless and unforgettable event.
Princess Perfect Weddings packages include*:
Perfect Pair Wedding (includes the couple and up to 2 guests)
Symbolic Wedding $2,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $3,495
Package Highlights:
• Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain
• Fresh florals, wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
• Dedicated photographer service and memorable prints
• Romantic breakfast for the couple
• Stateroom gifts and goodies
• Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
• Keepsake certificate
Timeless Ceremony at Sea (includes the couple and up to 8 guests)
Symbolic Wedding $3,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $4,495
Package Highlights:
P>• Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain
P>• Fresh florals, wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
P>• Solo live musician during the ceremony
P>• Dedicated photographer service
P>• Memorable prints and digital high-res photos
P>• Romantic breakfast for the couple
P>• Stateroom gifts and goodies
P>• Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
P>• Keepsake certificate
Timeless Wedding at Sea, (includes the couple and up to 18 guests)
Symbolic Wedding $5,995 / Legal Wedding, includes marriage license $6,495
Package Highlights:
P>• Indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain
P>• Fresh florals for the couple and the wedding party
P>• Wedding cake and sparkling wine toast
P>• Bridal hair styling & makeup
P>• Solo live musician during the ceremony and reception
P>• Dedicated venue to celebrate after ceremony
P>• Signature welcome cocktails curated by the couple
P>• Dedicated photographer service
P>• Memorable prints and all digital high-res photos
P>• Romantic breakfast for the couple
P>• Premium dining experience for the couple
P>• Stateroom gifts and goodies
P>• Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
P>• Keepsake certificate
The Love Boat line has also added packages for Princess Proposals at Sea and Vow Renewal Celebrations that include a dedicated event specialist who works closely with couples pre-cruise and on board to tailor their special event.
Renew the Love – Vow Renewal $1,595
Package highlights:
P>• Short, sweet indoor or outdoor ceremony by the ship's captain
P>• Fresh florals, celebration cake and sparkling wine toast for the couple
P>• Dedicated photographer and memorable prints
P>• Stateroom gifts and goodies
P>• Pre-cruise and onboard wedding coordinator
P>• Keepsake certificate
Princess Perfect Proposal $795
Package Highlights:
P>• Secret proposal setup in a private indoor or outdoor location
P>• Proposal rose and rose petal décor
P>• Dedicated photographer and memorable prints
P>• Celebration cake
P>• Stateroom gifts and goodies
P>• Pre-cruise and onboard coordinator
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
14.60 |
- 7.59% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
97.24 |
+ 2.04% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
18.53 |
- 3.14% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Before selecting the former France for conversion into the cruise ship Norway, NCL examined three other 900 ft + former liners. Name at least two of the three former liners they did not select.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which former cruise ship began life as the container cargo ship Axel Johnson in 1969?
Answer - The former Axel Johnson of the Johnson Line was rebuilt as Costa Marina of Costa Cruises. She was rebuilt in 1989 with a large subsidy from the Italian government. An earlier attempt at a cruise ship conversion by Regency Cruises was stillborn.
courtesy of R. Scafidi
Cruise News - June 19, 2023
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Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas Begins Sea Trials
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 Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas is on the move to sail the open ocean for the first time and reach its next construction milestone.
Ahead of a highly anticipated debut in January 2024, the first-of-its-kind vacation left the Meyer Turku shipyard – where it’s under construction in Turku, Finland – to begin its multiday sea trials.
On board are more than 450 specialists carrying out crucial, preliminary tests with Icon’s main engines, hull, lifeboats, thrusters and more in preparation for the new ship’s second round of sea trials later this year, where it will be pushed to its limits.
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Carnival Venezia Debuts in New York City
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Carnival Cruise Line welcomed the first guests to sail on Carnival Venezia™ from New York City today. The ship's launch in New York coincides with the busy summer travel season and builds on an exciting period of growth for Carnival, as the first of three ships to join the fleet over the next year.
A welcome event kicked off the celebration Wednesday evening for the ship's arrival to its homeport and the festivities continued Thursday morning in the Manhattan Cruise Terminal as the ship's first guests boarded to sail.
Carnival Venezia received a special blessing by Father Enrique Salvo of St. Patrick's Cathedral during the special welcome event, and acclaimed comedian and television host Jay Leno became the first godfather named to a Carnival ship. Leno also performed a special comedy show exclusively for Carnival's event guests.
 "By highlighting his own Italian heritage, Jay is helping us celebrate the Italian theming guests will experience when they cruise on this beautiful ship," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "We've heard great reviews from guests who sailed on the ship's transatlantic crossing, and now I am so happy to welcome our first guests joining us from New York to enjoy what's in store for them."
The ceremony on Wednesday night also highlighted new entertainment programming and other concepts created for Carnival Venezia's debut. The ship is the first to introduce "Carnival Fun Italian Style" that adds Carnival's signature fun to the vessel's beautiful Italian theming. Carnival Venezia is architecturally styled after its namesake, the city of Venice, Italy.
Inside the Manhattan Cruise Terminal on Thursday morning, Duffy greeted guests with a special event to welcome them on board the new ship. Captain Claudio Cupisti and some of the first guests to board from New York joined Duffy to cut a ceremonial ribbon and officially begin embarkation.
Thursday's departure from New York will take guests on a four-day sailing that includes a visit to Bermuda. This summer, the ship will alternate between sailing four-, five- six- and eight-day sailings to the Caribbean, Bermuda and ports in Canada and New England, including Saint John's and Halifax.
Carnival Venezia's positioning from New York builds on the popularity of Carnival's past summer sailing deployments from the port by offering a longer deployment plan that features a more varied itinerary portfolio. Beyond the summer season, the ship will begin a new series on Sept. 29, 2023, that alternates between eight- to 12-day cruises to the Eastern Caribbean, Southern Caribbean and The Bahamas, visiting popular destinations like Saint Thomas, San Juan and Aruba, along with four of Carnival's private destinations: Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, Amber Cove and Grand Turk. In addition, select cruises will feature Miami as a port of call.
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Royal Caribbean’s Reveals More Details About Utopia of the Seas
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Next summer, vacationers can celebrate the weekend in the biggest way ever. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the ultimate 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaway, Utopia of the Seas. As the first of the game-changing Oasis Class ships to offer short getaways when it debuts, the next big thing coming to vacations sets the stage to make more memories in one short trip than ever before. Starting July 2024 from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Utopia will introduce unmatched weekend energy across a combination of more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, ways to thrill and chill, and more of all the above at Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas – including the new adults-only Hideaway Beach opening in early 2024.
The signature adventures of the newest Oasis Class ship will make their short getaway debut alongside firsts and reimagined experiences, like a new Caribbean tiki bar, a first-of-its-kind immersive dining experience, the latest, greatest – and longest – dry slide at sea; newly designed resort-style pools; and more. Utopia opens for bookings on Royal Caribbean’s website as soon as Friday, June 23. Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members can book on Thursday, June 22.
 “Vacationers are looking to make every moment count by celebrating and recharging with their friends and family, and Utopia of the Seas makes all that possible in more ways than one,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “With the variety of dining, bars, pools, entertainment and thrills that make Oasis Class ships revolutionary and the experiences to match on our private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, we’ve combined the best of the best to create the world’s biggest weekend for everyone.”
Utopia is the getaway for friends, families and groups celebrating any occasion. Everyone can create their own weekend energy with their pick and mix of different types of pools and beaches, flavors from around the world, nightlife, entertainment and more.
Pool Days for Every Mood
Whether it’s days by the pool or the beach – both can be found on the ultimate getaway. Complemented by Perfect Day at CocoCay’s pools and white sand beaches, the vibes across Utopia’s five pools range from upbeat to lowkey.
• Resort-style and sloping beach-entry pools – Three pools and three Lime & Coconut bars are at the center of the action. Vacationers can hit the high-speed waterslides at The Perfect Storm, while young kids take on Splashaway Bay; kick back and soak in the sun and live island tunes; and enjoy quick, casual bites nearby like a new poolside food truck with handheld favorites; Mexican-inspired street food and drinks at El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca; and more.
• Solarium – The tranquil retreat is where adults can recharge in a pool and whirlpools of their own, complete with a bar, daybeds, panoramic ocean views and the Solarium Bistro.
• Suite Sun Deck – Tucked away in the exclusive Suite Neighborhood, the pool features a bird’s-eye view of the ocean in this private oasis with daybeds, loungers, umbrellas and more.
• To mix up the memory making, vacationers can dry off by diving into record-breaking thrills around every corner. From the most adrenaline-pumping Ultimate Abyss yet, now 43 feet longer at 259 feet and featuring new zoom booster rollers and transparent racing windows, to the 10-story-high zip line; the signature FlowRider surf simulator; mini golf at AquaDunes; and Utopia Playscape for young kids, there are adventures for everyone in the group.
A World Tour of Flavors
With more than 20 dining options, every type of vacationer can take their taste buds on a world tour while island hopping in The Bahamas.
• Immersive dining experience – Combining multiple courses, technology and different destinations and storylines, the new, one-of-a-kind experience to be revealed at a later date is a locomotive journey that engages all the senses.
• Izumi and Izumi in the Park – Joining the Royal Caribbean staple in its new Central Park location, is a convenient, new window that serves up fresh sushi and Japanese-inspired sweets. Next door is a reimagined Izumi restaurant, with double the teppanyaki tables and new al fresco seating.
• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – Now spanning two stories, the reimagined favorite and menu of authentic Italian dishes, varietals and classic cocktails with a twist extend to the new outside terrace – Gio’s Terrazza – that overlooks the signature Boardwalk.
• More returning favorites on the menu include The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, where live country music complements southern staples; Windjammer, featuring hundreds of dishes and flavors for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – all inspired by Royal Caribbean’s international chefs; Hooked Seafood; and Chops Grille, now connected to the signature Trellis Bar.
Celebrations for Every Occasion
Getting away is always a cause for celebration. Wherever and whenever on Utopia, travelers are just steps away from their next big cheers and night out, with more than 20 different bars and entertainment spots, two casinos, live music venues and showstopping entertainment.
• Pesky Parrot – The new Caribbean bar is a slice of laidback paradise on the Royal Promenade that serves up fruit-based cocktails made with rum, tequila and gin, alongside frozen drinks and more.
• Casino Royale – Upping the ante are two casinos that feature more than 370 slot machines, nearly 30 table games and more.
• Live music – It’s all about hitting the high note across five live music venues that range from Spotlight Karaoke to Latin hotspot Boleros, Music Hall, to rock out with the best cover bands at sea; Bell & Barley, the English pub with a live guitarist; and the classic piano bar, Schooner Bar.
• Showstopping entertainment – The cruise line’s original production shows take center stage across air, ice, water and theater, including high diving, slacklining and acrobatics at the AquaTheater; ice-skating feats at Studio B; and theatrical productions at the Royal Theater.
Utopia is the getaway for everyone – even when it comes to the rooms vacationers can choose from. Across more than 20 types of accommodations, groups of friends and families – however large or small – can find their perfect fit from rooms with views of the ocean or neighborhoods like the open-air Central Park and lively Boardwalk; layouts for three, four, five and more; or suites such as the Royal Loft Suite and Ultimate Family Suite, plus an all-new category – the Solarium Suites.
The celebrations also extend from ship to shores. The ultimate getaway packs in double the island time with visits to Nassau, The Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, the “Best Private Island” for three years running.* Between the two islands’ beaches and turquoise blue waters, and Perfect Day’s 13 waterslides, swim-up bar, pools, overwater cabanas and the upcoming adults-only Hideaway Beach, vacationers are in for more than one memorable beach day.
When it comes to hitting repeat on memory making, adventurers can choose to get away on Utopia any Friday or Monday or go all out on any ship in Royal Caribbean’s action-packed lineup of 3- to 8-night vacations from Port Canaveral, which includes the new Wonder of the Seas.
The ultimate 3- and 4-night getaway will also make waves when it debuts in July 2024 as the first Oasis Class ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the cleanest-burning marine fuel to date. As the cruise line’s second LNG-powered ship – following Icon of the Seas – Utopia will advance Royal Caribbean’s decades-long commitment to the environment by combining LNG technology with a lineup of the brand’s already-established environmentally friendly initiatives and features, from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connection.
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Princess Unveils Park19: New Top-Deck Family Activity Zone to Debut on Board Sun Princess
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The most engaging family activity zone ever featured on a Princess cruise ship is setting a course for adventure aboard the new Sun Princess, when the first Sphere Class vessel debuts Park19 in February 2024. Located on the top decks of Sun Princess, Park19 features nine engaging activities for the entire family to enjoy in a newly envisioned space perfect for fun and sun for all generations.
 "Park19 as the name suggests is a new space created for all our guests, including activities to bring together multi-generational travel families in a location with spectacular views and fun outdoor activities for all," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "The new area was tailored based on guest feedback for more family and group activities spaces."
Located on decks 19, 20, and 21, Park19 was envisioned for active guests and multi-generational families to explore and connect through inclusive and engaging activities, including:
• Sea Breeze – Inspired by the dream of hang gliding but in a safe environment, the Sea Breeze is the first Rollglider on a cruise ship and takes guests high above to enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and breathtaking ports of call. Using an overhead track, guests are seated and harnessed to this electric ride which reaches speeds of up to 11 mph during the 60- to 90-second experience that is also ADA accessible.
• Coastal Climb – On this engaging climbing structure guests ascend from decks 19 to 20 through a series of obstacles. Once at the top, guests can take in the gorgeous views before sliding back down to the bottom.
• The Lookout – At the top of the climbing structure, adventurers make their way to The Lookout open-air observation deck to take in stunning 360º views from the highest point available to guests onboard Sun Princess.
• The Net – Harnessed above deck 19, guests are challenged to trek across unstable bridges, a z-shaped balance beam and climb cargo nets.
• Infinite Horizon – For those who love heights, leaning tilt walls cantilevered over the side of the ship allow guests to peer out from deck 19 and look down to deck nine and beyond.
• Hammock Area – Another first for Princess, relaxing hammocks allow Park19 visitors to take a break from exploring to hang out with family and friends.
• Splash Zone – A whimsical splash area with pop jets and a beautiful water sculpture offer a refreshing and relaxing area to chill.
• Recreational Court – From ping pong, shuffleboard, Xponential Fitness classes and morning meditation, a rotation of sports and wellness options will be offered to guests in this multifunction sports court.
• Jogging Track – A refreshing open-air track allows guests to walk, jog or run at their own leisure and pace, with 6.7 times around the track equaling one mile.
Additional family-centric offerings onboard Sun Princess are found in the Youth & Teen Centers located on decks six and seven where activities and age-appropriate areas abound for all younger guests ages six months to 17. These complimentary areas include:
• Firefly Park – For the youngest Princess guests, this imaginative space, located on deck six, invites youngsters ages six months to seven years old and their families to explore, play and socialize. This family center is a place to play together or drop kids off for a program of art projects, theme parties and group games. Firefly Park also invites families with babies and toddlers, ages six months to three, to crawl and engage their senses with a dedicated play area. After hours group babysitting is available from 10 pm – 1 am for $5 per hour, for ages three - 12.
• Neon Grove (tweens) and The Underground (teens) – Located on deck seven, two separate areas offer an inviting space for tweens and teens to hang out, socialize, and just have fun. Both spaces feature colorful, comfy sofas and chairs for lounging, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch gaming consoles, plus air hockey, foosball, and skeeball. Program activities for these age groups include ship scavenger hunts, movie nights, friendly competitions, and dance parties.
"These expanded offerings give younger cruisers plenty to explore and enjoy aboard Sun Princess, creating an even more family-friendly experience with something for everyone regardless of age," Padgett added.
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Oceania Cruises Launches Rare Wine Collection Across Its Entire Fleet
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Oceania Cruises has debuted a new rare wine collection across its fleet complementing its top-quality gastronomic experiences. The line's newly upgraded, luxury wines and vintage lists will be featured for the first time across the entire fleet's vetted menus. Starting with 80 new labels sourced from Italy, France, South America and more, this global collection not only satisfies, but easily impresses, the world's most opulent wine connoisseurs and spirit reviewers, while also making introductions more approachable for those who are not already well-versed.
 With various selections of new and old world options, celebration wines, classic tastings and dessert pairings, each offering has been hand selected by Oceania Cruises' culinary team with every bottle taking 6-8 months to receive from elite suppliers in the industry. Highlights from the new collection include rare wine varieties like the classic Moët & Chandon Cuvée Dom Pérignon, Epernay, France, the famous Château Mouton Rothschild, 1er Cru Classe, Pauillac, France, the elegant Ornellaia "Super Tuscan", Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany, Italy, the hard to source Mascot, Napa Valley, California and the newly popular Vina Errazuriz Kai Carmenère, Aconcagua Valley, Chile. Guests are invited to try these newly featured labels and more at all restaurants, bars and suites across all seven ships, as well as various size bottles ranging from half sized to magnum.
"As we continue to expand our rare wine program and world-class onboard experiences, we are privileged to rely on the expert knowledge of our top culinary team who are actively collaborating and seeking out new products in the global food and beverage scene," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "We look forward to hearing the stories of our guests' memorable moments and shared celebrations while enjoying the new collection.
"We're excited to launch Oceania Cruises' new wine collection featuring the highest quality, hand-picked rare wine labels that reflect the global philosophy of the company," said Daniela Oancea, Corporate Beverage Manager of Oceania Cruises. "We are lucky to have built close relationships with the world's most exclusive producers who have dedicated their lives to the art of winemaking and are continuously tasting and discovering new varieties to keep up with modern trends."
Complementing the new rare wine collection and leaning into the popularity of its thoughtfully crafted exclusive wine pairing dinners on its 1,200 guest ships Marina, Riviera, and Vista, the only cruise ships in the world designed specifically for foodies by foodies, Oceania Cruises has additionally launched three new dining experiences and five new pairing menus on its newest vessel, Vista. Taking inspiration from the new collection, guests now have the opportunity to join the head sommelier and his team during a two-hour exclusive Cellar's Wine Luncheon in the fleet's newest restaurant Ember. This hand-selected tasting takes guests on a bespoke dining journey into the culinary world of food and wine, featuring a five-course menu with each dish perfectly and intentionally paired with a different premium wine. New for the line, Vista has additionally added eight-person private dining rooms in its iconic Polo Grill and Toscana restaurants, each delivering two new tantalizing menus featuring a specially curated selection of gourmet dishes paired with premium wines from the onboard culinary team. With only eight guests per night, parties may select from the Polo Classic Menu, Polo Premium Menu, Toscana Classic Menu or Toscana Premium Menu.
With the highest percentage of culinary personnel devoted to the dining experience with one chef to every ten guests, exceptional cuisine has been a hallmark for Oceania Cruises since its first sailing in 2003. Earning the reputation as the cruise line of choice for epicureans, Oceania Cruises uses the freshest ingredients with all dishes prepared à la minute from its onboard Michelin-star quality galley. From exquisite fine dining partnerships to top interactive mixology experiences, Oceania Cruises continues to prioritize innovation in this sector with the finest culinary experiences offered while en route to dreamworthy destinations.
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Carnival Cruise Line Brings Back Internship at Sea Program
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Carnival Cruise Line’s entertainment team is helping students set sail for success, by re-introducing its Internship at Sea program. The cruise line welcomed 24 students from 24 different U.S. universities to join ships as Youth Staff, Fun Squad, Technicians and Sports Staff members.
 “We’re elated to bring back this unique entertainment internship program that’s an incredible learning experience for both college students and our shipboard team members,” said Chris Nelson, vice president of entertainment. “It’s important for us to create these special opportunities to inspire the next generation and invest in the fun and memorable cruise vacations of the future.”
Over the summer, interns in this innovative program will receive hands-on experience, learning about teamwork, communication, problem-solving and leadership skills – all while earning college credit. Students are mentored by shipboard team members to help them transition to shipboard life.
Since the Internship at Sea started in 2016, 65 students have participated on 20 ships. Several past interns have utilized the knowledge and experience from the program to start careers in the cruise industry, taking on a range of roles, from cruise director to shoreside project manager.
In 2019, Carnival’s Internship at Sea program was recognized by WayUp, a U.S.-based job site for college students, as one of the top 100 internship programs in the country. The program was paused in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
15.80 |
+ 7.34% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
95.30 |
+ 1.86% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
19.13 |
+ 3.91% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which former cruise ship began life as the container cargo ship Axel Johnson in 1969?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Prior to S.O.S. a different code was used as the International signal for distress. What was the code, what did it stand for, and what was the first large passenger ship to use it to request help?
Answer - The code is CQD; meaning Come Quick Distress. This was used by the liner RMS Titanic after she struck an iceberg in April of 1912.
courtesy of Patti Stasiak
Cruise News - June 12, 2023
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MSC Cruises Officially Names Its Newest Flagship, Msc Euribia
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MSC Cruises welcomed its much-anticipated new flagship to the fleet last Thursday during a Naming Ceremony taking place in Copenhagen. The traditional maritime ceremony will honor traditional maritime heritage and pay tribute to the environmentally advanced MSC Euribia, which is designed to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship ever.
 MSC Euribia is MSC Cruises' second vessel powered by LNG, the cleanest marine fuel currently commercially available at scale. On board, she boasts a range of best-in-class environmental technology, including advanced onboard wastewater treatment systems and waste management handling. She has also been designed with the future in mind, allowing her to easily incorporate future innovations in sustainability, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels as soon as they are available at scale.
MSC Euribia is expected to be the most energy-efficient cruise ship design in the world at the time of her launch.1 During her maiden voyage, MSC Euribia completed a net zero GHG emissions journey from Saint-Nazaire to Copenhagen, benefiting from the emissions reductions allowed by bio-LNG and application of the mass balance approach.
Renowned Danish television host, actress and model Sarah Grünewald will oversee the Naming Ceremony. Joining tonight's festivities are distinguished guests from around the world, key travel partners and international media, as well as top management from MSC Cruises and its parent company, MSC Group.
Godmother of MSC Cruises' fleet and globally recognized screen legend Sophia Loren will also be in attendance to officially name the ship, continuing her long-standing and close relationship with MSC Cruises.
The momentous occasion will include live entertainment and speeches combined with the important maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon to break a bottle of champagne over the ship's bow. Guests will also be treated to a gourmet gala dinner and unforgettable performances, including a spectacular DJ set by Bob Sinclar, internationally acclaimed French DJ and record producer, who will close out the evening.
The special event will give guests a first look at the revolutionary new ship's cutting-edge design and various world-class guest experiences.
MSC Euribia begins sailing in Northern Europe this summer with 7-night sailings from Kiel, Germany and Copenhagen, Denmark to the captivating Norwegian Fjords, including Geiranger, Ålesund, and Flaam.
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Carnival Venezia Arrives Home to New York City
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Carnival Venezia, the latest addition to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, sailed into its New York City homeport for the first time this morning. The ship’s guests just completed a 15-day transatlantic sailing that began in Barcelona, Spain.
 Carnival will host a welcome ceremony on board the ship Wednesday evening and acclaimed comedian and television host Jay Leno will become the first godfather named to a Carnival ship. On Thursday, Carnival Venezia will mark its first departure from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, with guests set to embark on a four-day cruise visiting Bermuda.
Carnival Venezia is debuting “Carnival Fun Italian Style” and introducing several new concepts, from restaurants and bars to entertainment programming. The new venues and experiences enhance the ship’s theming, as its design is inspired by the city of Venice, Italy.
The 25th ship in the fleet, Carnival Venezia will offer a wide range of options for guests cruising from New York, including 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.
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Celebrity Cruises Reveals Details for Its Upcoming Ship - Celebrity Ascent
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Today, Celebrity Cruises unveils for the very first time details about what travelers can experience on board the brand's newest resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent, once it launches this November. As one of the most awarded premium cruise lines, with the first ships to ever receive the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating, Celebrity Cruises is once again making waves with the arrival of its fourth Edge Series ship. Touted as one of the "Best New U.S. Cruises of 2023" by Conde Nast Traveler, Celebrity Ascent will be the newest ship based in South Florida for the 2023-2024 Caribbean season. Cruising out of Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale from December 2023 to April 2024, the stunning new ship will transport guests to some of the Caribbean's most desired destinations like the Bahamas, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands, before departing to Europe for a summer of bucket-list Mediterranean cruises in Greece, Italy, Turkey, Spain and France.
On board Celebrity Ascent, guests will enjoy the signature experiences of the brand's Edge Series ships, including its industry-first outward facing design that maximizes views and outdoor areas allowing guests to connect with the world around them, a robust food and beverage program with 30 plus choices from casual to fine dining to satisfy all palates, plus spacious and sleek staterooms in a breadth of accommodation options catering to all travelers from solo adventurers and couples, to multi-generational family groups.
"I am so excited to introduce the world to Celebrity Ascent and continue the legacy of Celebrity's Edge Series," says Celebrity Cruises' President, Laura Hodges Bethge. "First launched in 2018, the Edge Series transformed what cruising could be and its ships like Edge, Apex and Beyond quickly became consumer favorites. Continuously striving to offer travelers a better way to enjoy travel and reach the world around them, we are so proud of what we have built and look forward to welcoming both seasoned and new cruisers alike."
Edge Series Favorites Return:
Incorporating all the features that made her sister ships in the Edge Series a TIME magazine "World's Greatest Places," Celebrity Ascent will bring back favored signature experiences, like:
• The Theatre - that takes entertainment at sea to a new level with state-of-the-art technology and experiential, imaginative performances.
• The Rooftop Garden - the ultimate outdoor haven where guests can enjoy live music, movies, infinity float pools, and even al fresco dining at the Rooftop Garden Grill.
• The Spa - where holistic wellness takes center stage through 120 destination-inspired treatments, the SEA Thermal Suite featuring eight distinctive therapeutic experiences inspired by nature, plus specialty treatment beds, a full-service salon and barber.
• The sprawling Resort Deck - featuring a main pool lined with cabanas, two-story martini-glass-shaped hot tubs, and The Solarium, an adults-only, tranquil spa-inspired retreat built for relaxation and complete with pool, hot tub and loungers.
• The Sunset Bar designed by Nate Berkus - where an international beach club ambiance meets fresh sea breezes and boundless views.
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• The Magic Carpet - the world's first cantilevered lounge and gathering space at sea sits on the edge of the ship, offering a new way to drink, dine and socialize while enjoying unobstructed panoramic views.
• Inventive culinary experiences – like the three-story Eden Bar and Restaurant featuring floor-to-ceiling views, or the fully immersive and animated Le Petit Chef dinner.
• The Grand Plaza and Martini Bar – that stun guests with an interactive chandelier and jaw-dropping Flair, Flash, Fusion bartender shows.
• Modernized accommodation options – such as the Infinite Veranda that transforms from window to terrace with the push of a button, and the AquaClass staterooms built for wellbeing-seekers that are packed with thoughtful design and exclusive amenities.
New Food and Beverage Experiences:
Celebrity Ascent will treat guests to a culinary journey that includes new experiences like:
• Redesigned Le VoyageSM by Daniel Boulud restaurant – first featured on Celebrity BeyondSM, the brand will continue its partnership with Boulud and introduce his second restaurant at sea. The reimagined space, created by KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group, will offer an intimate fine dining experience inspired by the Chef's travels.
• Plant-based tasting menu at Eden Restaurant - bringing guests closer to the earth through a culinary journey rooted in untouched, fresh and seasonal ingredients.
• Never-before-seen Le Petit Chef dinner - the crowd favorite dinner will feature an all-new animation and menu to match.
• Bourbon offerings and tastings - expanding on existing whiskey tastings, Craft Social will now offer high-end bourbons and new tasting seminars.
• More Martinis at the Martini Bar – aligning with the trend of low-sugar cocktails and fresh, crisp ingredients, the Martini Bar will feature brand-new creations and an expanded menu including lychee and passion fruit martinis.
• Revitalized Main Dining Experience - once again featuring four complimentary main dining options, each with a signature menu and rotating nightly dishes, Ascent will feature a redesigned Cosmopolitan restaurant inspired by the culture of champagne.
• Outdoor terrace at Blu - the clean-cuisine restaurant exclusive to AquaClass guests will feature an outdoor terrace with 24-person seating that will be available for daytime dining, from al fresco brunches to lunches.
New Entertainment, Art and Retail Experiences:
On board Ascent, travelers will enjoy enhanced entertainment, art and retail offerings like:
• Nightly entertainment - as the sun sets the Resort Deck will become the center stage for the ultimate nightlife experience treating guests to an open-air celebration with live performances, live music, and a DJ creating a pulsating dance floor.
• New production shows - building on Celebrity's award-winning entertainment, the brand is partnering with industry-leading creatives to introduce three spectacular new productions shows in The Theatre, new interactive digital experiences and shows in The Club, and new engaging immersive shows in the Eden Bar and Restaurant, all featuring world-class dances, vocalists, musicians and specialty artists.
• Redesigned Casino floor and brand-new games - a first for Celebrity Cruises, Ascent will feature an all-new gaming floor complete with a new layout, new design featuring deep reds and golds, and all new slot machines with the latest technology.
• Redesigned Art Gallery - the new space is thoughtfully reimagined, allowing guests to better experience priceless art pieces, and enjoy exclusive auctions and art events.
• The Sunset Collection by Nate Berkus - a collection of chic travel and home accessories available exclusively on board Celebrity Ascent.
How to Set Sail on Celebrity Ascent:
With a vast array of dates and itinerary options catering to all kinds of travelers, Ascent is slated for an exciting winter Caribbean and summer Europe season. Options to sail include:
• Be one of the first to experience Ascent by booking one of the Preview sailings, such as the 4-Night Western Caribbean voyage on November 22, 2023, or the 3-Night Bahamas getaway on November 26, 2023.
• Join a monumental celebration by taking part in the 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Maiden Voyage on December 3, 2023.
• Pick and choose from one of the ship's signature Caribbean sailings that take place from mid-December 2023 to early April 2024, like the 7-Night Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman itinerary or the 7-Night San Juan, Tortola and St. Kitts.
• Celebrate the holidays at sea during the 7-Night Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman Holiday Cruise departing on December 24, 2023, or ring in the New Year on the 7-Night San Juan, Tortola, and St. Kitts cruise departing on December 31, 2023.
• Kick off the summer with the ultimate Mediterranean getaway on the 9-Night Italian Riviera and France itinerary; or cross Rome, Naples, Mykonos, and Santorini off your bucket-list during the 12-Night Best of Greece and Italy itinerary.
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Spooky Fun and Merry Magic Await Disney Cruise Line Guests on Halloween and Holiday Cruises in Fall 2024
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The fun of fall and winter holidays will meet the magic of Disney Cruise Line in late 2024 with the return of Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises. With rare itineraries to Hawaii and the South Pacific and more opportunities to visit Disney's newest island destination in The Bahamas, families will have the chance to experience the fall seasons at sea in new and exciting ways.
Halloween on the High Seas
Halloween on the High Seas returns to Disney Cruise Line in mid-September through October 2024. This season of extra-special sailings will bring the fun of Halloween to guests on select cruises across the fleet with a host of added entertainment. Families will dress up and join Disney characters in their Halloween costumes; dance the night away at a spooky celebration on the upper decks; enjoy spinetingling themed food and beverages; and immerse themselves in a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and a magical Pumpkin Tree.
From Port Canaveral, Florida, the Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night Bahamian voyages full of frightful fun, while the Disney Fantasy will offer these special themed cruises with lengths varying from four, six and seven nights. Four- and six-night sailings on board the Disney Fantasy will take families to The Bahamas, while seven-night escapes will transport guests to fan-favorite destinations throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean.
The Disney Magic will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on vacations ranging from three to five nights to tropical destinations in The Bahamas and Caribbean. Select sailings on both the Disney Magic and the Disney Fantasy will include a chance for families to discover fun and relaxation at Disney Cruise Line's newest destination in The Bahamas. Located on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point, this vibrant beach retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
Very Merrytime Cruises
 From mid-November through December 2024, the Disney Cruise Line fleet will be decked from bow to stern with holiday cheer and entertainment during Very Merrytime Cruises. Holiday magic will be unwrapped for the whole family with joyful holiday décor; favorite characters in their finest festive attire; themed activities that are merry and bright; and celebrations on deck that are full of holiday spirit.
Families who want to spend the most wonderful time of the year with Disney Cruise Line will have opportunities to sail from two home ports in Florida, as well as a selection of cruises from Galveston, Texas.
Short holiday getaways will be offered from both home ports in the Sunshine State, with a selection of three- and four-night Bahamian Very Merrytime voyages on the Disney Wish from Port Canaveral and four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale aboard the Disney Dream.
The Disney Fantasy will also embark a variety of four-night Very Merrytime sailings to The Bahamas, along with longer six- and seven-night itineraries in November and December. Select voyages on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will include a day of fun in the sun along the white sand beaches of Disney Cruise Line's newest destination at Lighthouse Point during the holiday season.
Cheerful cruises from Galveston aboard the Disney Magic will range in length from four to six nights, allowing families to celebrate the holiday season together while visiting tropical ports of call throughout the Caribbean.
Special Sailings to Hawaii and the South Pacific
In addition to the festive themed sailings, Disney Cruise Line guests can experience bucket-list itineraries in late 2024. The Disney Wonder will sail from Vancouver, Canada, to Honolulu, Hawaii, in late September with stops on the islands of Kauai, Maui and Hawaii before arriving in Oahu. From Hawaii, the Disney Wonder will embark on a transpacific voyage to Sydney, Australia, that will take families through the South Pacific to visit once-in-a-lifetime destinations such as Fiji, American Samoa and New Caledonia.
Disney Cruise Line will then set sail on its second season of vacations from Australia and New Zealand, bringing the magic of Disney close to home for local families in the region.
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HAL Set To Sail Most Diverse Asia Cruise Season With 49 Ports Across 10 Countries In 2024-2025
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For Holland America Line’s 2024-2025 Asia season, the cruise line is set to explore the Far East with departures from Hong Kong, China; Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan; and Singapore to some of the most exciting cities across 10 countries, with a strong focus on Japan.
Noordam will sail a series of nine different 14-day itineraries that travel around Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. The cruises showcase the diversity of the countries while celebrating their unique histories. Late departures and overnight ports allow extra time for sampling the nightlife, cuisine and culture of the region.
 “The demand for Asia remains strong as cruisers seek experiences to exotic and off-the-beaten-path locales that give them unique travel moments,” said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line’s chief commercial officer. “By offering three departure cities we’re able to diversify our itineraries and showcase an incredibly robust season. With 24 ports in Japan alone and two dozen more spread among several countries, our guests are in for an immersive Asia adventure.”
Westerdam also heads to Asia on a new 53-day “Majestic Japan” Legendary Voyage roundtrip from Seattle. Travelers can visit the Far East with a convenient North American flight, easy embarkation and jetlag-free journey spanning several time zones.
Longer Legendary Voyages on Two Ships
• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 53- or 52-Day “Majestic Japan” aboard Westerdam departing Sept. 1 or 2, 2024, either roundtrip Seattle, Washington, or between Vancouver, Canada, and Seattle. Featuring 21 total ports, 13 calls throughout Japan and overnights at Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe, Japan, and Honolulu, Hawaii.
• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 28-Day “Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef” departing Jan. 5, 2025, roundtrip from Singapore aboard Noordam that explores 10 ports in five countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, with scenic cruising in the famed Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait, and past the Kumba and Krakatau volcanoes.
Highlights of the 2024-2025 Asia Season
• Noordam explores Asia from September 2024 through April 2025.
• Overnight calls include Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe (Osaka); Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand; and Da Nang, Vietnam.
• The cruises visit a combined 49 ports in the region, including 24 in Japan.
• “North Pacific Crossing” between Vancouver and Yokohama:
• 13 days, departing Sept. 29, 2024, Vancouver to Yokohama, including calls at Sitka and Kodiak, Alaska, and Kushiro, Japan.
• 15 days, departing April 27, 2025, Yokohama to Vancouver, including Kushiro, and Alaska’s Kodiak, Juneau, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay.
• “Circle Japan” — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Three itineraries:
• Osaka (Kobe), Kochi, Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, Niigata, Aomori, Otaru (Sapporo) and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Sokcho, South Korea.
• Kochi, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Kanazawa, Niigate, Otaru, Aomori and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Busan (Pusan), South Korea.
• Shimizu, Kobe, Kochi, Hiroshima, Sakaiminato, Tsuruga, Toyama, Akita, Hakodate and Miyako, all in Japan; as well as Sokcho.
• “Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines” — 14 days, between Yokohama and Singapore. Calls at Osaka (overnight), Naha and Ishigaki, Japan; Keelung (Taipei) and Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Manila, Boracay and Puerto Princesa, Philippines.
• “Far East Discovery” — 14 days, between Hong Kong and Singapore. Calls at Halong Bay, Da Nang (Hue), Nha Trang and Phu My, Vietnam; Sihanoukville, Cambodia; and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight) and Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand.
• “Far East Discovery Holiday” — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. Thailand: Nathon (Koh Samui) and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight). Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Phu My, Halong Bay and Da Nang (overnight).
• “Indonesian Discovery” — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. All calls are in Indonesia and include Probolinggo and Semarang, Java; Celukan Bawang and Benoa (Denpasar), Bali; Komodo Island; Lembar, Lombok; and Tanjung Priok, Jakarta. Scenic cruising by the active Krakatau Volcano.
• “Japan and Taiwan” — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Amami (Naze), Naha, Ishigaki Island, Nagasaki, Abruatsu, Kochi and Kobe. Taiwan: Hualien and Keelung (Taipei).
• “Japan and South Korea Discovery” — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Kobe (overnight), Kochi, Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Kagoshima. South Korea: Sokocho, Busan, Jeju City (Cheju) and Incheon (Seoul).
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Royal Caribbean Group Extends Collaboration to Capture Critical Ocean Conservation Data Onboard Ships
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Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) Strengthening a decades-long commitment to ocean conservation and environmental research efforts, Royal Caribbean Group today announced a four-year extension of its investment in OceanScope, an open-source data program that provides scientists with critical information to study climate and ocean conservation. Collaborating with key program partners including the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, NASA, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the program's renewal on World Oceans Day builds on over 20 years of groundbreaking ocean and marine life research from Royal Caribbean Group ships.
 OceanScope leverages a unique, comprehensive suite of oceanographic and meteorological instruments, located onboard Royal Caribbean Group ships, that generates continuous, simultaneous collection of the ocean's vital signs such as the structure of currents, sea surface temperature, carbon dioxide concentrations, and salinity taken along the repetitive ship routes – which allows scientists to monitor changes on scales of seasons, years, and even decades.
"At Royal Caribbean Group, every day is World Oceans Day – and we are thrilled to renew a program as impactful to oceanic research as OceanScope," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "We're dedicated to sustaining our planet and delivering the best vacations, responsibly – and our decades-long support of this unique initiative is testament to that. We can't wait to see how OceanScope, and our scientific collaborators progress our understanding of ocean health and conservation."
OceanScope's open-source database is available to the international scientific research community worldwide. The resulting data products and peer-reviewed research are key to informing ocean and conservation policy.
Launched in 2002, the program helped verify for the first time that ocean acidification – a reduction in pH over an extended period of time caused primarily by uptake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere was occurring in the Caribbean Sea but at varying rates. Ocean acidification is detrimental to calcifying organisms such as oysters, clams, sea urchins, shallow water corals, deep sea corals, and calcareous plankton, and an ongoing concern for the entire food web.
Extending OceanScope on Royal Caribbean Group ships helps ensure ongoing monitoring and changes of key ocean and atmospheric processes in critical ecosystems.
"We are most grateful to renew our successful collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group," said Dr. Peter Ortner, research professor of marine biology and ecology at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science. "This is an extraordinary example of how private industry, academic research institutions, and government agencies are collaborating to amass an incredibly valuable dataset highlighting the intricate connection between the ocean, atmosphere, and climate."
As of 2023, data has been collected from over 100,000 nautical miles sailed from four ships, traveling across the Caribbean Sea, Galapagos, North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Royal Caribbean International's Allure of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas and Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Flora and Celebrity Equinox are currently providing data to scientists at NOAA, the University of Miami Rosenstiel School, and the community at large. Royal Caribbean Group intends to share the program's learning to its more than eight million guests annually in an effort to increase ocean literacy.
"NASA is excited to revive its long-standing partnership with OceanScope, which is a valuable player in the Agency-led efforts to understand Earth climate today, and inform humanity for what waits tomorrow. Looking at Earth's ocean's from space and leveraging in situ observations enabled by projects like OceanScope is what allows us to build robust knowledge of ocean's role in climate, which controls our planet's heat, energy, and water," said Dr. Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, lead of NASA's Climate Variability and Change Focus Area and program director of the NASA Ocean Physics program at NASA HQ, Washington, D.C.
"Sustained and systematic operations with automated instruments on a variety of platforms, including this innovative collaboration, is a key to maintaining and strengthening the World Meteorological Organization's and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission's Global Ocean Observing System to which NOAA is a major contributor," said Rik Wanninkhof, a NOAA senior scientist and ocean carbon expert at the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory. "In particular, the CO2, surface temperature and salinity data from Royal Caribbean Group's ships are major contributors to these ocean observing networks to determine the ocean's carbon sink strength and ocean acidification."
Royal Caribbean Group's conservation work extends beyond OceanScope, with the company championing a broader commitment to sustaining the planet as part of its SEA the Future platform. Royal Caribbean Group is actively working to decarbonize its business through innovation, collaborative partnerships and a transition to cleaner fuels, smarter technologies, and improved energy efficiencies. Ultimately, the company's efforts are driving toward – Destination Net Zero – a commitment to reach net-zero by 2050 and to deliver a net-zero emissions cruise ship by 2035.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
14.72 |
+ 19.67% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
93.56 |
+ 6.80% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
18.41 |
+ 16.67% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Prior to S.O.S. a different code was used as the International signal for distress. What was the code, what did it stand for, and what was the first large passenger ship to use it to request help?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which liner was the favorite of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor for Atlantic crossings during the 1950's? On crossings they would always book the same suites and travel with nearly 100 pieces of luggage and their pug dogs.
Answer - The favorite liner of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in the 1950's was the United States. They switched to the then new USL liner because of the panache of her speed record, and also because Cunard Line had informed them that they would have to charge the couple a baggage handling fee for the extensive number of bags and trunks they carried, and would no longer honor the "free passage" Cunard had provided for members of the Royal Family.
courtesy of Hal Einhorn, New Jersey
Cruise News - June 5, 2023
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Viking's Newest Ocean Ship Named by Metropolitan Opera Chairman Ann Ziff
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Viking today named its newest ocean ship, the Viking Saturn, with a celebration in New York City. As part of the event, the ship's ceremonial godmother, Ann Ziff, the esteemed philanthropist and Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera, a longtime Viking cultural partner, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—a maritime tradition that dates back thousands of years. The ship will now continue her inaugural season, sailing two new Viking voyages: Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada, between New York City and Reykjavik, and Iceland & Norway's Arctic Explorer, between Reykjavik and Bergen.
 "This is a very proud day for Viking as we name our newest identical ocean ship in New York City, one of the great cultural capitals of the world," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "It is especially fitting that Ann Ziff, Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera—one of the world's greatest cultural institutions—has honored us by serving as godmother of the Viking Saturn. We thank Ann for her loyalty as a Viking guest, as well as her many impressive contributions to the arts and other important causes."
"It is an honor to be godmother of the new Viking Saturn and celebrate this momentous occasion in New York," said Ann Ziff. "Viking and the Metropolitan Opera share a common goal in creating enriching experiences throughout the world and there is no doubt the Viking Saturn will do just that for her guests."
In keeping with the naming tradition, during the ceremony Ziff used the steel sword from the Metropolitan Opera's production of Verdi's Il Trovatore to cut a ribbon that allowed a bottle of Norwegian aquavit to break on the ship's hull. The prop sword was originally used by baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky in the role of Count di Luna in David McVicar's production, which premiered in the 2008-2009 season. Prior to the ribbon cutting, the sword was presented to Ziff by Lady Fiona Carnarvon, the Countess of Carnarvon, who is also the godmother of the Viking Mars and a Viking Longship, the Viking Skadi.
As part of the ceremony, guests also enjoyed performances from Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world's leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter and Norwegian violinist Tor Jaran Apold. Following a celebratory dinner on board the ship, stars of the Metropolitan Opera—soprano Susanna Phillips, tenor Charles Castronovo, and baritone Quinn Kelsey—treated guests to a performance of opera classics, including selections from Giuseppe Verdi's La Traviata, Antonín Dvorák's Rusalka, Giacomo Puccini's La Bohème, as well as a collection of American musical classics from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Jerome Kern and others.
A dedicated philanthropist focused on the arts, education, culture and environmental conservation, Ann Ziff is Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera and serves on several boards, including the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Sing for Hope, the World Science Festival and the Los Angeles Opera. Passionate about bringing culture and arts into the lives of children in need, she co-founded Smile Train and was a board member at Maloto, an organization that provides education and housing for abused and abandoned girls in Malawi. Ms. Ziff also has an eponymous fine jewelry brand, Tamsen Z, where she designs and creates one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by her love of culture, art and music as well as her travels as a loyal Viking guest.
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Carnival Names Jay Leno as 'Godfather' to Carnival Venezia
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Carnival Cruise Line today announced that acclaimed late night talk show host and comedian Jay Leno will serve as its first ever godfather to one of its ships, Carnival Venezia, at a celebratory event on June 14, 2023 when the ship is blessed and enters service from New York City. The ship is the first to incorporate "Carnival Fun Italian Style" that adds Carnival's signature fun to the beautiful Italian theming of the vessel. In addition to serving as the Godfather, Leno will perform a special comedy show exclusively for Carnival's event guests, in partnership with Carnival World Mastercard.
 "Carnival Venezia originally entered service for our Italian sister brand Costa Cruises and was christened in 2019, so she already has a godmother. With Carnival Venezia joining the fleet and sailing from New York, we wanted to ensure a proper welcome for the ship and decided having a godfather would be both fun and appropriate," said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. "And when we thought of someone who would make a FUN godfather with Italian heritage, we knew Jay Leno would be the perfect godfather! And he's already a member of the Carnival family – he entertained guests a few years ago as part of our Carnival LIVE entertainment series."
"I am truly honored to be named the godfather of Carnival Venezia. It was an offer I couldn't refuse," said Leno. "Carnival's focus on FUN combined with the Italian theming of this ship is something that is truly unique. I'm also excited to have my very own cruise ship, although I think I'll need a bigger garage!"
A native of New Rochelle, NY, Leno is the grandson of immigrants from Flumeri, Campania, Italy. He began his entertainment career in stand-up comedy, which led to the nearly two-decades-long role he is best known for as host of The Tonight Show, from which he retired in 2014. During most of his tenure, Leno's The Tonight Show was the top-ranked talk show on late night, and he earned the reputation as being "the hardest working man in show business."
Leno currently produces and is host of the CNBC primetime series Jay Leno's Garage that is now in its seventh season and explores the world of cars, never forgetting that it's the people behind the wheel who provide the real stories. The series debuted in October 2015 and delivered CNBC's most-watched first season in network history. He remains in demand as a stand-up performer, corporate speaker and the host of the game show reboot, You Bet Your Life.
Carnival Venezia celebrates Venice, Italy, and has many spaces on board that are reminiscent of her namesake. When guests enter the ship, they arrive in the Venice-inspired atrium Piazza San Marco, the onboard flavor and flair continues at restaurants like the elegant Marco Polo and Canal Grande Restaurants, along with the new Italian specialty restaurant, "Il Viaggio." Carnival Playlist Productions shows entertain guests at the Teatro Rosso theater that is reminiscent of Italian opera houses.
Guests will also find many Carnival mainstays they know and love on board, including Guy Fieri's Guy's Burger Joint, the steakhouse Fahrenheit 555, Bonsai Sushi & Teppanyaki and the Chef's Table, along with Lido Marketplace, Seafood Shack and Pizzeria del Capitano, Piano Bar 88 and Heroes Tribute Lounge.
Carnival Venezia is set to arrive to her new home in New York City and begin sailing from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal on June 15, 2023. The ship accommodates more than 5,000 guests and will offer 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.
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Sapphire Princess Rescues Passengers and Crew From Expedition Ship in Alaska
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Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess rescued 67 people after an engine room fire broke out on another ship.The cruise line successfully transferred 51 passengers and 16 crew members from Wilderness Discoverer to Sapphire Princess on Monday (5 June) as the ship headed to Glacier Bay in Alaska.
 The 2,670-passenger Sapphire Princess was alerted by the US Coast Guard to assist the Wilderness Discoverer.
“We are pleased to report there are no injuries and that our crew aboard Sapphire Princess are feeding and taking great care of these passengers,” the company said in a statement.
Princess Cruises continues to work with the US Coast Guard and local authorities to support these passengers in their forward travel.
“We are proud to have been able to render assistance and would like to take this opportunity to thank the crew of Sapphire Princess led by our Captain Todd McBain as well as our colleagues with the U.S. Coast Guard on this positive outcome,” Princess added in the statement.
Sapphire Princess is sailing on a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska itinerary that departed from Vancouver on May 31.
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Homemade, Fresh Pasta and New Dishes Highlight HAL's Refreshed Canaletto Menu
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Fresh pasta made on board and authentic Italian dishes are the focus of Holland America Line's updated Canaletto menu. Guests dining at the specialty restaurant, which is open for dinner only, can indulge in a meal that includes several new selections, along with signature favorites that remain on the menu.
Updated menu at Italian specialty restaurant features new recipes and cocktails
 Canaletto offers a quintessential Italian experience, and all the pasta is made fresh on board by Holland America Line's expertly trained chefs. The refreshed menu offers a three-course meal that includes Small Plates, Homemade Pastas and Entrées, and Desserts, in addition to a Special of the Day.
"The pasta we make on board is exceptional and we want the updated menu to continue to reflect an Italian experience with a focus on freshness and authenticity," said Michael Stendebach, Holland America Line's vice president, food and beverage. "Each course has a selection that brings the flavors of Italy on board no matter where our ships are cruising, and the update adds some exciting new dishes and cocktails."
Small Plates, Big Flavors
Guests can start their meal at Canaletto with a Small Plate. The popular Antipasto Plate features prosciutto di parma, finocchiona salami, truffle salami, Terre Ducali coppa, Parmigiano Reggiano and Sicilian olives. Other options include Veal and Sage Meatballs, Burrata, Canaletto Salad and Grilled Tiger Shrimp.
Entrées Showcase Fresh Pasta
Fresh pasta made on board is the star of the entrée selections. New dishes include Casarecce Pesto Genovese, Italian Sausage Paccheri, Seared Mediterranean Seabass and Mussels, Scallop and Calamari Trenette. Returning favorites include Chianti-Braised Beef Short Rib and Herb and Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast. Formerly a once-a-week special, Ossobuco is now offered daily.
Delectable Italian Desserts
Italy is known for its amazing sweets, and Canaletto's menu features a selection of traditional desserts, including Tiramisu, Lemon Ricotta Baked Cheesecake, Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, Affogato and a trio of gelato. The gelatos are also made fresh daily on board.
Cocktails Feature Italian Favorites
In addition to the cuisine, new cocktails highlight the refreshed menu. Guests can say saluti with an Aperol Spritz, Spumoni (made with Holland America Line's own De Lijn Gin), Tuscan Lemon Drop and a Canaletto Bellini with a selection of fruit puree. The menu also includes a selection of sparkling, white and red wine, as well as beer and digestives.
Dinner at Canaletto is a $25 surcharge per person or included as a specialty dining option under the "Have it All" package.
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Royal Caribbean Group Announces Ground-breaking Biofuel Testing
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This summer, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) will set a new industry milestone in alternative fuel use when Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Apex and Royal Caribbean International's Symphony of the Seas, set sail in Europe using sustainable biofuel to meet part of the ships' fuel needs. The landmark test will contribute critical data and research on the fuel's capabilities and supply chain infrastructure needed to further the industry's alternative fuel ambitions.
During the three-month test, Celebrity Apex will depart from the Port of Rotterdam and Symphony of the Seas will depart from the Port of Barcelona, using a biofuel blend that reduces the ships' carbon emissions. The biofuel blend is produced by purifying renewable raw materials like oils and fats and combining it with fuel oil to create an alternative fuel that is cleaner and more sustainable.
"Biofuels will play an increasingly important role in achieving, not only our own, but the entire maritime sector's decarbonization goals in the short and medium term. We take great pride in continuing to push our industry forward in exploring innovative fuel solutions that reduce carbon impact and preserve the vibrancy of the oceans we sail," said Jason Liberty, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group.
The cruise company plans to continue increasing the use of alternative lower carbon fuel to meet the needs of its ships across the fleet. After the trials are completed this summer, Royal Caribbean Group plans to scale up the use of alternative fuels, including biofuels, across upcoming European summer sailings.
"With our sights set on a bright and sustainable future, we are committed to collaboration and innovation to ensure we deliver great vacation experiences, responsibly. With the completion of the trials our hope is to advance our ships' ability to meaningfully reduce emissions and propel forward strategic partnerships with suppliers and ports to ensure there is sufficient availability of biofuel and infrastructures to make maritime energy transition a reality," Liberty said.
This key step in Royal Caribbean Group's pursuit of alternative fuels follows closely after a biofuel trial on its California-based Navigator of the Seas, became the first a cruise ship to sail from a U.S. port while using renewable diesel fuel this past fall.
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HAL Set to Sail Most Diverse Asia Cruise Season in 2024-2025
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For Holland America Line's 2024-2025 Asia season, the cruise line is set to explore the Far East with departures from Hong Kong, China; Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan; and Singapore to some of the most exciting cities across 10 countries, with a strong focus on Japan.
 Noordam will sail a series of nine different 14-day itineraries that travel around Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. The cruises showcase the diversity of the countries while celebrating their unique histories. Late departures and overnight ports allow extra time for sampling the nightlife, cuisine and culture of the region.
Departures from Hong Kong, China; Yokohama (Tokyo), Japan; and Singapore to cities across 10 countrie
"The demand for Asia remains strong as cruisers seek experiences to exotic and off-the-beaten-path locales that give them unique travel moments," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "By offering three departure cities we're able to diversify our itineraries and showcase an incredibly robust season. With 24 ports in Japan alone and two dozen more spread among several countries, our guests are in for an immersive Asia adventure."
Westerdam also heads to Asia on a new 53-day "Majestic Japan" Legendary Voyage roundtrip from Seattle. Travelers can visit the Far East with a convenient North American flight, easy embarkation and jetlag-free journey spanning several time zones.
Longer Legendary Voyages on Two Ships
• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 53- or 52-Day "Majestic Japan" aboard Westerdam departing Sept. 1 or 2, 2024, either roundtrip Seattle, Washington, or between Vancouver, Canada, and Seattle. Featuring 21 total ports, 13 calls throughout Japan and overnights at Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe, Japan, and Honolulu, Hawaii.
• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: New 28-Day "Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef" departing Jan. 5, 2025, roundtrip from Singapore aboard Noordam that explores 10 ports in five countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, with scenic cruising in the famed Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait, and past the Kumba and Krakatau volcanoes.
Highlights of the 2024-2025 Asia Season
• Noordam explores Asia from September 2024 through April 2025.
• Overnight calls include Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe (Osaka); Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand; and Da Nang, Vietnam.
• The cruises visit a combined 49 ports in the region, including 24 in Japan.
"North Pacific Crossing" between Vancouver and Yokohama:
13 days, departing Sept. 29, 2024, Vancouver to Yokohama, including calls at Sitka and Kodiak, Alaska, and Kushiro, Japan.
15 days, departing April 27, 2025, Yokohama to Vancouver, including Kushiro, and Alaska's Kodiak, Juneau, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay.
• "Circle Japan" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Three itineraries:
Osaka (Kobe), Kochi, Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, Niigata, Aomori, Otaru (Sapporo) and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Sokcho, South Korea.
Kochi, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Kanazawa, Niigate, Otaru, Aomori and Hakodate, all in Japan, as well as Busan (Pusan), South Korea.
Shimizu, Kobe, Kochi, Hiroshima, Sakaiminato, Tsuruga, Toyama, Akita, Hakodate and Miyako, all in Japan; as well as Sokcho.
• "Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines" — 14 days, between Yokohama and Singapore. Calls at Osaka (overnight), Naha and Ishigaki, Japan; Keelung (Taipei) and Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Manila, Boracay and Puerto Princesa, Philippines.
• "Far East Discovery" — 14 days, between Hong Kong and Singapore. Calls at Halong Bay, Da Nang (Hue), Nha Trang and Phu My, Vietnam; Sihanoukville, Cambodia; and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight) and Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand.
• "Far East Discovery Holiday" — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. Thailand: Nathon (Koh Samui) and Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight). Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Phu My, Halong Bay and Da Nang (overnight).
• "Indonesian Discovery" — 14 days, roundtrip from Singapore. All calls are in Indonesia and include Probolinggo and Semarang, Java; Celukan Bawang and Benoa (Denpasar), Bali; Komodo Island; Lembar, Lombok; and Tanjung Priok, Jakarta. Scenic cruising by the active Krakatau Volcano.
• "Japan and Taiwan" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Amami (Naze), Naha, Ishigaki Island, Nagasaki, Abruatsu, Kochi and Kobe. Taiwan: Hualien and Keelung (Taipei).
• "Japan and South Korea Discovery" — 14 days, roundtrip from Yokohama. Japan: Kobe (overnight), Kochi, Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Kagoshima. South Korea: Sokocho, Busan, Jeju City (Cheju) and Incheon (Seoul).
Ranging from 27 to 42 days, Asia Collectors' Voyages are perfect for avid explorers seeking a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back, nonrepeating itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests.
Holland America Line's extended Legendary Voyages range from 25 to 59 days and combine the ceremony of a Grand Voyage with itineraries that feature a comprehensive collection of ports that enrich the experience in each destination. Most of Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
12.30 |
+ 9.04% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
87.60 |
+ 10.89% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
15.78 |
+ 8.98% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which liner was the favorite of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor for Atlantic crossings during the 1950's? On crossings they would always book the same suites and travel with nearly 100 pieces of luggage and their pug dogs.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which famous liner came to the assistance of the Andrea Doria after she was struck by the Swedish liner Stockholm in 1956?
Answer - The French Line transatlantic liner "Ile de France" came to the rescue after the collision between the Italian liner "Andrea Doria" and the Swedish Liner "Stockholm" on July 25, 1956. The collision occured in fog off the Nantucket Shoals.
courtesy of Larry MacDonald
Cruise News - May 29, 2023
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Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas Ups the Ante and Appetite With New, Reimagined Dining
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Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas is turning the tables in January 2024 with an unmatched lineup of dining experiences designed for every type of family and vacationer. Travelers with an appetite for adventure can have their pick of more than 20 new and signature ways to dine and make memories, a combination of elevated experiences, spots for quick bites and venues made for families with kids.
From restaurants to walkup windows, casual to upscale, live music to chefs who put on a show, the first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation will feature options for every occasion and mood. On the menu are new venues like the upscale Empire Supper Club, a swanky and lavish eight-course experience; AquaDome Market – Royal Caribbean's first food hall – and Izumi in the Park, an all-day window with fresh sushi and more. The variety of new flavors complement the favorites on board that range from Italian to Japanese and Mexican, including Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Izumi and El Loco Fresh.
 "The experiences had over great food are at the heart of so many shared memories that we could all use more of in our day-to-day. We've designed Icon of the Seas to offer every guest, no matter their tastes, age and mood or the occasion, a variety of ways they can easily make those moments their way every day while on vacation," said Linken D'Souza, vice president, food and beverage, Royal Caribbean International. "If vacationers want to stick to their favorites, like kids and their chicken tenders, or mix it up every night and try new flavors, more than 20 experiences across Icon's eight neighborhoods make that possible – without compromise – more than ever."
Whether it's refueling on the go between the six record-breaking waterslides at Category 6 in Thrill Island or the whole family sitting down for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Surfside neighborhood designed for young families, there are spots to grab a bite and a drink in and around each of Icon's eight neighborhoods.
Elevated Dining Experiences
• Empire Supper Club – Near the lush Central Park neighborhood, the new experience is an extravagant night out with a taste of old New York. Bringing it to life is an eight-course menu of premium American cuisine, from caviar to wagyu; a drink paired with every dish; a swanky three-piece band playing unexpected renditions of modern favorites; and more.
• Celebration Table – Special occasions and milestones get the VIP treatment at the new 12-seat private experience. Paired with AquaDome's sweeping ocean views, guests can have their choice of exclusive • American, Italian, Asian and seafood menus, along with the option to add a personal touch with ambient plus-ups and menu upgrades.
• Returning favorites – The good times continue at signature venues like Central Park's American steakhouse, Chops Grille, and Trellis Bar, with its debut menu of bites; the Dining Room, where three levels are matched with three courses; Hooked Seafood in AquaDome; Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Bar, new to Royal Promenade; the now two-level Coastal Kitchen in the Suite Neighborhood; and the exclusive Chef's Table experience.
Spots for Quick Bites
• AquaDome Market – The lineup at Royal Caribbean's first food hall brings five different stalls and a selection of wines and beer to the table for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Flavors range from sweet and savory crepes at Creme de la Crepe to macaroni and cheese with a twist of tasty toppings at Mac's, to fresh pitas and bowls at Feta Mediterranean, to Asian-inspired treats like Korean beef and broccoli at GNGR, and sandwiches and salads at Toast and Garden.
• Izumi in the Park – The all-day window debuts next to the first Izumi restaurant in Central Park, serving up fresh sushi and street food to go like taiyaki ice cream with Insta-worthy toppings.
• The Pearl Cafe – A new stop for bites day or night, like freshly toasted sandwiches and ready-made salads, the cafe sits between The Pearl and floor-to-ceiling ocean views in Royal Promenade.
• Basecamp – The new spot to refuel between memory-making in Thrill Island, Chill Island and The Hideaway serves drinks and treats like pretzel bites with cheese and crispy shrimp bao buns. For a sweet ending, nearby is Desserted, the new milkshake bar with over-the-top shakes, including adults-only boozy options.
• The Grove – The new al fresco and casual Mediterranean dining option conveniently located on the suite sun deck in the Suite Neighborhood – only steps away from the private pool, whirlpool and cozy spots to hang out.
• Returning favorites – Part of making convenience a staple of the dining lineup on Icon are the fan favorites, including Central Park's Park Cafe – now open in the evening for tapas – El Loco Fresh, the grab-and-go spot for Mexican delights in Chill Island; Sorrento's signature pies and a different specialty pizza for every day of the week in Royal Promenade; and the most expansive Windjammer buffet that offers an equally expansive menu of flavors from around the world, along with a section and selection designed for kids.
Family and Kids-Approved Eats
• Surfside Eatery – The new buffet dedicated to families at the heart of Surfside, the stay-all-day neighborhood for young families, has options for all ages to enjoy at breakfast, lunch and dinner, including twists on kids classics for the grownups.
• Pier 7 – It's about the all-day brunch at this new venue in Surfside, serving up casual California-inspired dishes like surf-and-turf tacos, smoked salmon benedict and sharable platters.
• Surfside Bites – Surfside's pit stop makes maximizing every minute of adventure easy, thanks to the walkup window and its menu of quick snacks like burgers, popcorn chicken, cinnamon-sugar donut holes and more.
• Returning favorites – From bow to stern, the whole family can have their pick from signature options like sushi and hibachi cooked by an expert chef who puts on a show at the Asian-inspired Izumi, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade for some friendly competition and bar bites, and Sprinkles for ice cream all day and night.
The lineup of new and returning favorites join the recently announced bars and nightlife that will light up Icon, including spots for families like The Lemon Post in Surfside, with a menu for adults and another for kids; and Dueling Pianos in Royal Promenade, the cruise line's first dueling pianos bar.
Starting January 2024, Icon will sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami year-round and visit destinations like Royal Caribbean's award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Honduras.
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Viking Announces New Expedition Voyages in the Arctic
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Viking today announced three new summer season expedition voyages in the Arctic. Debuting in July 2025, the new itineraries, which range from 13 to 27 days, explore the polar north in Canada and Greenland, with two of the three voyages visiting the Canadian High Arctic.
 The 13-day Into the Northwest Passage itinerary sails roundtrip from Nuuk, Greenland and features destinations including the pristine waters of the Ilulissat Icefjord and the eastern entrance of the famed Northwest Passage in Pond Inlet, Canada. Guests can also discover stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes during the 15-day Canada & Greenland Explorer itinerary, which sails between Toronto and Nuuk. Those interested in more in-depth exploration can choose a combination of the two itineraries, the new 27-day Canada & the Northwest Passage voyage.
"Our guests are curious travelers who are eager to explore new and different regions of the world, in Viking comfort," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "From the time of Leif Eriksson and the original Vikings, Greenland and the Canadian High Arctic have fascinated intrepid explorers. Today, there is no better way to experience this pristine area of the world than from the comfort of our purpose-built expedition ships."
2025 Arctic Voyages:
Viking's new itineraries in the Arctic include:
• NEW Into the Northwest Passage (13 days; Nuuk to Nuuk) – Discover the diverse landscapes and rugged shores of the world's largest island. Immerse yourself in Inuit traditions as you explore towns dotted with colorful wooden houses. Head out kayaking on the fjord or partake in a Zodiac landing and witness stunning displays of nature, from towering peaks to blue-tinged glaciers. Join Viking on a fascinating voyage exploring the Canadian High Arctic to undiscovered territories beneath the skies of the midnight sun. Sailing dates are available from July through September 2025.
• NEW Canada & Greenland Explorer (15 days; between Toronto, Ontario and Nuuk) – Explore Canada and Greenland's rugged shores on an awe-inspiring journey through one of the most fascinating corners of the world. Sail amid floating icebergs as they drift in blue-tinged waters and witness the wonders of Mother Nature as you immerse yourself in dramatic landscapes. Learn about the Inuit traditions that still thrive in remote communities and experience the stark beauty of the Arctic beneath the skies of the midnight sun. Sailing dates are available in July and September 2025.
• NEW Canada & the Northwest Passage (27 days; between Nuuk and Toronto, Ontario) – Witness the majesty of floating icebergs and rugged lands as you embark on a journey to the Canadian High Arctic and Greenland. View towering icebergs, expansive icefields and deep-blue fjords that are rich in marine life. Get a glimpse of life in Inuit communities and learn about traditions that have sustained for generations. Bask beneath the skies of the endless midnight sun as you join us on a voyage of discovery to far-flung lands. Sailing dates are available in July and September 2025.
Viking is also offering world cruises between the Great Lakes and "the end of the world." The Viking Octantis will begin her epic journey from Milwaukee to Ushuaia on the 70-day Longitudinal World Cruise III in September 2023 – offering guests a variety of impressive travel milestones in a single journey from the heart of North America through engineering wonders like the Welland and Panama Canals, into the Chilean fjords and finally to Antarctica. Similarly, the Viking Polaris will embark on the 71-day Longitudinal World Cruise II from Duluth to Ushuaia in September 2023; she will also sail the 62-day Longitudinal World Cruise IV from Milwaukee to Ushuaia in October 2024. Viking also offers a similar voyage in reverse, from Buenos Aires to Milwaukee, with the 65-day Longitudinal World Cruise I, which embarks in February 2024.
Viking Expedition Ships
The Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. The vessels are purpose-built for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations. With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels, guests are as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth.
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Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Invites Cruise Passengers to Enjoy Revitalised Nassau Cruise Port
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After three years of construction, the reimagined Nassau Cruise Port opens its doors to cruisers sailing to Nassau, the vibrant capital city of the archipelago.
 Featuring a sixth berth and new terminal building, the revitalised port is now home to a Junkanoo museum, event and entertainment spaces, a 3,500-seat amphitheatre, a living coral exhibit, local stores and new food and beverage facilities.
"The new Nassau Cruise Port offers a whole new experience for cruise visitors," says the Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. "Not only will Bahamian culture shine through all aspects of the port but the completion of the project marks a great milestone in ushering a new era for tourism in downtown Nassau, as well as a beautiful welcome for the millions of cruisers who disembark here each year."
With support from Junkanoo experts Arlene Nash Ferguson and Percy "Vola" Francis, the Nassau Cruise Port Junkanoo Museum is an immersive experience, sharing the story of the destination's national cultural festival. Authentically Bahamian products are on display across 40 retail spaces at the port, including local businesses such as Bahama Hand Prints, Bamboo Shack and much more.
"We anticipate our traffic numbers for 2023 to exceed pre-pandemic levels with about 4.2 million visitors," says Mike Maura, Port Director for Nassau. "Our growth trajectory is quite promising. In 2019, which was the busiest year for us to date, we had 3.85 million visitors. For 2024, we already have 4.5 million confirmations."
Earlier this year, the Nassau Cruise Port set a record-breaking passenger arrival, welcoming 28,554 cruise visitors in one day – a testament to how the cruise industry is an important component to The Bahamas' economy. The new and improved port provides entrepreneurial opportunities for Bahamians in addition to benefiting local businesses, shops and restaurants.
In celebration of the grand opening, the Nassau Cruise hosted a handful of private events on site and a "Cruise Passenger Day Party" on 27 May 2023, inviting passengers to explore the new facilities complete with Junkanoo rushouts.
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Holland America Line's 2024-2025 Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Cruises
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Three Holland America Line ships are set to explore the lush landscapes and natural wonders of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific in 2024-2025. From unspoiled islands to cosmopolitan cities, Westerdam will spend the season Down Under, while Koningsdam and Zaandam each offer a longer Legendary Voyage to the South Pacific and Hawaii.
Itineraries up to 58 days include immersive explorations of South Pacific islands and a circumnavigation of Australia
In October 2024 Westerdam sails a westwardly South Pacific crossing, followed by the iconic Australia Circumnavigation. From December 2024 through March 2025, the ship offers a series of 14-day departures roundtrip from Sydney, Australia, or between Auckland, New Zealand, and Sydney. Zaandam's "Tales of the South Pacific" in September 2024 is from Vancouver, Canada, to San Diego, California, or roundtrip San Diego, while Koningsdam's "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" in February 2025 is roundtrip from San Diego.
 "Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific are iconically beautiful locations, but they have so much more to offer which is why they remain high on the bucket list of travelers who are looking to see the world with the ease of a cruise," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "The Australia Circumnavigation itinerary is the most in-depth immersion a cruiser can have of the continent, and many of our Legendary Voyages make it possible to visit distant destinations from a North American homeport. These cruises are among some of the most notable we offer."
Legendary Voyages Linger Longer
Holland America Line's extended Legendary Voyages range from 25 to 59 days and combine the ceremony of a Grand Voyage with itineraries that feature a comprehensive collection of ports that enrich the experience in each destination. Most of Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation.
Highlights of the Australia and New Zealand 2024-2025 Season
• LEGENDARY: The 35-day "Australia Circumnavigation" departing Nov. 17, 2024, sails Roundtrip from Sydney. Westerdam visits 16 ports around the continent of Australia and includes scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef, as well as the remote Ribbon Reef and Far North Regions. Guests enjoy overnight calls at Freemantle (Perth), Australia, and Hobart, Tasmania, along with a late-night departure from Adelaide. Beyond Australia, the ship will call at Komodo Island.
• From January through March 2025, Westerdam offers 14-day "Australia and New Zealand" cruises between Auckland and Sydney. The sailings include six ports around New Zealand and a call at Hobart. All itineraries include scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park, and select dates also include Milford Sound.
• A special 14-day "New Zealand Holiday" cruise departing Dec. 22, 2024, is roundtrip from Sydney. Guests spend the holidays exploring six ports around New Zealand, including an overnight call at Wellington.
The holiday itinerary also features scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
Highlights of the South Pacific 2024-2025 Season
• LEGENDARY: 51- or 56-day "Tales of the South Pacific" voyage aboard Zaandam. The 51-day itinerary is roundtrip from San Diego departing Sept. 30, 2024, while the 56-day cruise is from Vancouver to San Diego departing Sept. 25. The exploration takes a counterclockwise route around the South Pacific, with 20 calls in Hawaii, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, Cook and Society Islands, Marquesas and Tahiti. Guests have extra time ashore with overnights at Honolulu, Hawaii, and Papeete, Tahiti, as well as late-night departures from Honolulu and Suva, Fiji.
• Westerdam's 23-day "South Pacific Crossing" departing Oct. 24, 2024, is from Seattle, Washington, to Sydney. The Pacific Ocean crossing includes seven ports in Hawaii, New Caledonia, Fiji and American Samoa.
• LEGENDARY: The 35-day "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" aboard Koningsdam departs Feb. 15, 2025, and is roundtrip from San Diego. The ship makes four calls in Hawaii and six additional island calls throughout the South Pacific. Overnights include Honolulu, Raiatea, Moorea and Papeete.
• LEGENDARY: Westerdam's 29-day "South Pacific Crossing" departing March 30, 2025, is from Sydney to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Guests discover 12 ports in Hawaii, American Samoa, Fiji and New Caledonia. The itinerary offers an overnight at Honolulu, plus late-night departures from Lahaina and Kona, Hawaii; Suva; and Nouméa, New Caledonia.
Book Back-to-Back Cruises with a Collectors' Voyage
Ranging from 43 to 58 days, Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Collectors' Voyages are perfect for avid explorers seeking a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back, nonrepeating itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests.
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Oceania Cruises' Senior Culinary Director Alexis Quaretti Inducted into Maîtres Cuisiniers de France
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Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, is proud to announce that Chef Alexis Quaretti, Senior Culinary Director, has been inducted into the prestigious echelons of the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France. Quaretti joins Oceania Cruises' Vice President of Culinary Eric Barale, who served as Quaretti's godfather into the program. As such, Oceania Cruises is the only major cruise line to boast two Master Chefs of France.
 The association of Master Chefs of France was established in 1951. Its goal is to support and promote French culinary arts around the world. This mission is embodied by the chef members, as they are ambassadors of French cuisine and culture and are responsible for relaying this heritage to their apprentices.
"It's truly remarkable to have two Master Chefs of France leading our culinary team," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Chef Eric and Chef Alexis are both long-standing members of the culinary team, Eric being one of the first members of Oceania Cruises' culinary family and Alexis joining us shortly after in 2004. The palpable kinship and passion throughout the culinary team prove that Oceania Cruises not only serves The Finest Cuisine at Sea but also has the finest culinary team at sea."
"Being inducted into the Master Chefs of France is truly one of the biggest honors of my career, and I sincerely look forward to being part of this prestigious organization," said Alexis Quaretti, Senior Culinary Director at Oceania Cruises. "I have always been proud to represent French culinary ideals and am lucky to be able to bring the best of the best to Oceania Cruises. I would like to thank my friend and colleague Chef Eric Barale for being my godfather throughout the process and providing me with constant guidance and advice throughout my career."
Driven by the desire to make Oceania Cruises a destination for pleasure-seekers in search of one-of-a-kind experiences, Quaretti has created a menu of universal world flavors with his own French expertise and unique fondness for diverse products. His ever-changing menus celebrate the freshest ingredients and are inspired by his home country of France as well as his world travels. As the line's recipe development manager, Quaretti has designed, made and tested every dish served on an Oceania Cruises' ship. He and his talented team create approximately 300 new recipes each year to constantly revitalize and reinvigorate the onboard menus.
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Carnival Corporation appoints Paul Ludlow as president Carnival UK and P&O Cruises
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Carnival Corporation & plc has announced the appointment of Paul Ludlow as Carnival UK president in addition to his leadership role for P&O Cruises.
In his new consolidated position, Ludlow will assume all commercial and operational responsibility for Carnival UK which includes P&O Cruises and Cunard globally. New Cunard president Katie McAlister, who joins the company in August, will report to Ludlow.
 As part of this leadership change, Sture Myrmell will be leaving the business after a long and illustrious career with the company.
Commenting on the changes, Carnival Corporation & plc president, CEO and chief climate officer Josh Weinstein said: "Paul is a 21-year veteran of the company with far-reaching experience across every commercial department and multiple brands in our portfolio of world-class cruise lines. That deep expertise, coupled with Paul's proven leadership and track record of outstanding results, make him the clear choice to support our entire UK organization and to drive our return to strong profitability."
Weinstein added: "I would also like to thank Sture for 30 years of dedicated service. From his start in our company as an officer aboard Cunard, to becoming President, P&O Cruises – Australia, to coming full circle and ultimately leading Carnival UK including the venerable Cunard brand, Sture's dedication and contributions to our company have been significant. We wish him well."
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: "There has never been a more auspicious time for our two brands. P&O Cruises continues to deliver outstanding success and is clearly at the forefront of contemporary, mainstream holidays.
"Aligned with global talent including Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger, as well as credible, authentic partnerships such as the recent BAFTA Television Awards sponsorship, the future of the brand could not be brighter.
"Next year will be a momentous one for Cunard with the arrival of our new ship and our fourth Queen, Queen Anne, which will once again shine the spotlight on this exceptional brand with its rich legacy. I am confident that the arrival of Katie McAlister to lead the Cunard team will build on the demand for Cunard voyages in the UK and across the world."
Ludlow's role is effective from June 1, 2023.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.28 |
+ 0.45% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
79.00 |
- 1.63% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.48 |
+ 1.12% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which famous liner came to the assistance of the Andrea Doria after she was struck by the Swedish liner Stockholm in 1956?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
When Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was out on her sea trials she sported a unique entertainment option on her aft decks. This entertainment option never made it past the sea trials. What was this high flying entertainment option?
Answer - A "High Flying" blimp shaped balloon was tethered to her aft decks.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - May 22, 2023
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Carnival Dream Assists in Ocean Rescue of 17 People Near Belize
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 Carnival Dream’s crew helped rescue 17 people stranded in the Belize Channel Wednesday, after the group’s boat capsized. Carnival Dream was heading for Cozumel, Mexico, when the ship’s officers spotted the capsized boat and the group in distress.
Carnival Dream Captain Francesco Fiorentino’s officers and crew immediately alerted the Belize Coast Guard, lowered one of its shipboard tenders into the water in conjunction with local Belize tenders, and helped to rescue all 17 people.
Each member of the group rescued was in good condition before a transfer with the Belize Coast Guard was coordinated.
Carnival Dream resumed its voyage, continuing on to Cozumel as scheduled. The ship departed Galveston, Tex. May 14 for a six-day sailing, and will return May 20.
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Princess Cruises Debuts First-Ever Summer Colonial Heritage Voyages
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For the first time ever Princess Cruises will offer a series of Colonial Heritage itineraries featuring Yorktown, Va., part of Virginia's Historic Triangle, along with stops at charming and history-rich Charleston, S.C., Boston and Halifax aboard Island Princess sailing round-trip from New York next summer.
In addition, The Love Boat is expanding its popular Canada & New England cruise and cruisetour program offering guests a chance to witness regal trees boasting rich shades of red, purple, orange and yellow, plus colonial history, stunning lighthouses, fresh seafood enjoyed in quaint seaside villages aboard Emerald and Enchanted Princess in 2024. Select cruises also feature stops in three Greenland ports, home to stunning landscapes including magnificent fjords and unique and varied wildlife.
Debuting in 2024, Princess' new summer Colonial Heritage itineraries from New York City are highlighted by the cruise industry's first-ever stops in Yorktown, a historically significant and picturesque town that serves as the gateway to Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. The voyages are a perfect lead up to Sestercentennial celebrations marking the 250th birthday of the United States making this can't-miss sailing for history buffs. Charleston, Boston and Halifax are also included in Island Princess' 10- and 11-day itineraries which take place in June 2024. These voyages go on sale on May 25, 2023.
Princess is also offering a number of "firsts" on its 2024 Canada & New England sailings, including a unique 17-day itinerary aboard Emerald Princess that combines the best of the East Coast with three day-long visits to ports in incredible Greenland, with opportunities to view massive glaciers and experience interesting cultural and sightseeing opportunities. These sailings complement the line's leading fall foliage departures that attract "leaf peepers" the world over with roundtrip seven- to 17-day cruises sailing from Boston, on sale now.
 "The upcoming 2024 Canada & New England cruise and cruisetour program is highlighted by the debut of new summer Colonial Heritage voyages with visits to Yorktown and cruises sailing in and out Boston," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "We know history buffs and seafood enthusiasts are going to love this collection of enticing voyages that tell the story of our American and Canadian history."
The 2024 Canada & New England cruise and cruisetour season includes 27 total departures from Boston, New York, Québec and Ft. Lauderdale, visiting 25 destinations with 11 itineraries, sailing on three cruise ships – Emerald Princess, Enchanted Princess and Island Princess. Voyages include:
Seven-Day Cruises
NEW!: Canada & New England – Emerald Princess – Seven Days: Roundtrip from Boston, visiting Halifax, Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) and Portland. Cruises depart July 14, 21, 28; August 4, 2024.
Canada & New England – Enchanted Princess: Roundtrip from New York, visiting Newport, Boston, Bar Harbor (for Acadia National Park), Halifax and Saint John (for the Bay of Fundy – only on select cruises). Cruises depart August 24, 31; September 7, 14, 21, 28; October 5, 12, 19, 26, 2024.
10-17-Day Cruises
NEW! Colonial Heritage – Island Princess – 10/11 days: Roundtrip from New York visiting Charleston, Boston, Halifax, Newport (on select cruises) and Yorktown. Cruises depart June 4; June 14; June 25, 2024.
NEW! Classic Canada & New England – Emerald Princess – 10 days: From Boston to Québec (More Ashore overnight) with stops in Portland or Rockland, Saint John (for the Bay of Fundy), Halifax, Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) and Saguenay. Cruises depart August 28; September 17; October 7, 2024.
NEW! Classic Canada & New England – Emerald Princess – 10 Days: From Québec (More Ashore overnight) to Boston, visiting Saguenay, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Halifax, Saint John (for the Bay of Fundy) and Portland. Cruises depart September 7, 27, 2024.
NEW! Classic Canada & New England – Emerald Princess – 11 Days: From Québec (More Ashore overnight) to Boston, visiting Saguenay, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Halifax, Saint John (for the Bay of Fundy) and Portland. Cruise departs July 3, 2024.
NEW! Canada & Colonial America – Emerald Princess – 14 Days: From Ft. Lauderdale to Québec (More Ashore overnight) visiting Charleston, Yorktown, New York City, Newport, Boston, Sydney (Cape Breton Island) and Saguenay. Cruise departs June 19, 2024.
NEW! Canada & Colonial America – Emerald Princess – 14 Days: From Québec (More Ashore overnight) to Ft. Lauderdale, visiting Halifax, Portland, Boston, New York City, Yorktown and Charleston. Cruise departs October 17, 2024.
NEW! Greenland & Canada – Emerald Princess – 17 days: Roundtrip from Boston visiting three ports in Greenland - Nuuk, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik - plus Sydney (Cape Breton Island), Corner Brook, St. Anthony (Newfoundland) and St. John's (Newfoundland). Cruise departs August 11, 2024.
Options for guests wishing to spend more time exploring historic cities and monuments include two in-depth cruisetours, combining a scheduled 2024 cruise with multiple days on land, including:
Historic America Cruisetour – with seven nights on land guests visit U.S. Capital Washington D.C., Thomas Jefferson's Monticello estate, Colonial Williamsburg, Independence Hall in Philadelphia and the Gettysburg Battlefield.
The Maple Explorer Cruisetour - brings guests to beautiful Niagara Falls; exciting cities like the capital of Canada, Ottawa, and French-flavored Montréal with guided tours of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, dazzling cathedrals and the historic 19th century Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Carnival Cruise Line Adds Season of ‘Fun Italian Style’ in Port Canaveral
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As Carnival Cruise Line prepares to debut its new ‘Carnival Fun Italian Style’ experiences on its latest addition to the fleet, Carnival Venezia, the cruise line is opening future sailings for the ship that include a series of departures from Port Canaveral, Fla. as the ship heads south for winter of 2024-25 like millions of other Northeasterners, before returning to New York in the spring of 2025.
“The sailings we’re opening today will allow us to share this new signature fun with more guests and bring another truly dynamic offering to one of our most popular homeports,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Carnival Venezia’s seasonal operation in Port Canaveral will bring our deployment there to five vessels and give our valued Carnival guests another great option when sailing from Central Florida.”
Carnival Venezia will reposition from New York with a 12-Day Southern Caribbean Carnival Journeys Cruise that departs on Dec. 6, 2024 and visits St. Thomas; St. Croix; Aruba; Curacao and Grand Turk and arrives to Port Canaveral on Dec. 18, 2024. The ship will embark its first guests from Port Canaveral on the same day and depart for a four-day Bahamas cruise, visiting Nassau and Freeport, to kick off its winter series. It will then operate 15 seven-day cruises, rotating itineraries and visiting a variety of popular destinations, as well as sailing two special 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises. After its seasonal deployment in Florida, the ship will return to New York in the spring of 2025.
The following itineraries are examples of the sailings now open for sale on Carnival Venezia from Port Canaveral:
• Week-Long Sailings from Port Canaveral Seven-Day Exotic Eastern Caribbean Cruise departs Dec. 22, 2024 and visits Grand Turk; San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. Similar cruise itineraries are also available on five additional departure dates between February and April in 2025.
• Seven-Day Exotic Eastern Caribbean Cruise departs Jan. 5, 2025 and April 27, 2025 and visits Amber Cove; San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas.
• Seven-Day Exotic Western Caribbean Cruise departs Dec. 29, 2024 as well as Jan. 26, 2025 and March 23, 2025 and visits Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; Belize and Cozumel, Mexico.
• Seven-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs Feb. 9, 2025 and March 9, 2025 and visits Nassau, Bahamas; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
• Seven-Day Western Caribbean Cruise departs April 6, 2025 and April 20, 2025 and visits Nassau, Bahamas; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
Special Carnival Journeys Cruises from Port Canaveral
• 14-Day Southern Caribbean Cruise departs Jan. 12, 2025 and visits St. Thomas; Antigua; Dominica; Grenada; Barbados; St. Maarten; St. Kitts and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• 14-Day Southern Caribbean Cruise departs Feb. 23, 2025 and visits Grand Turk; Aruba; Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Limon, Costa Rica and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.
The 5,000-guest Carnival Venezia will soon embark its first guests on a 15-day Carnival Journeys transatlantic sailing May 29, 2023 from Barcelona and arrive to her new home at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York City. The ship’s first cruise from New York, a four-day cruise to Bermuda, is set for June 15, 2023. From its New York homeport through December 2024, the ship will operate 10 different cruise durations and 22 unique itineraries featuring visits to 25 ports across 14 countries.
Carnival Venezia is currently undergoing an enhancement project in Spain and will be the first ship to showcase ‘Carnival Fun Italian Style.’ It will debut a slate of fun concepts and experiences influenced by the ship’s Italian design, since it was originally built under Carnival’s sister brand, Costa Cruises, and boasts beautiful architectural features inspired by Venice, Italy that make the ship a unique addition to the Carnival fleet. Guests will find the same warm hospitality on Carnival Venezia that Carnival is known for fleetwide.
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Princess Cruises Salutes Tuskegee Airman with Special 100th Birthday Celebration
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With a patriotic salute and special celebration, Princess Cruises today welcomed one of the few surviving Tuskegee Airmen onboard Discovery Princess in Seattle as he arrived for his celebratory cruise to Alaska, marking an early commemoration for his 100th birthday. Lieutenant Colonel James H. Harvey III, retired United States Army Air Corps and Air Force officer (USAF), shattered racial barriers in the military as a part of a group of African American pilots who served their country with legendary distinction during World War II.
 To honor Harvey, the McChord Field Honor Guard welcomed him and his family aboard Discovery Princess with a USAF traditional display of presenting colors. Topping out the festivities, the Discovery Princess crew presented Lt Col Harvey with a birthday cake while hundreds of the ship's company joined in wishing him a happy birthday.
"It's our sincere honor to celebrate the 100th birthday of Lieutenant Colonel Harvey III, a trailblazer, hero, and real 'Top Gun,'" said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "His life and legacy should remind everyone the power of courage, determination, resilience and the American spirit. From all of us at Princess Cruises, we salute Lt. Col. Harvey and wish him a very happy 100th birthday!"
Born in Montclair, New Jersey on July 13, 1923, Harvey is a former fighter pilot with the 332nd Fighter Groups 99th Squadron, best known as the Tuskegee Airmen, "Red Tails," one of 1,007 documented pilots trained for aerial combat during World War II. He is best known as the first African American USAF jet fighter combat pilot to fight in the Korean War and flew 140 missions from 1949 to 1950. Harvey, along with every member of the Tuskegee Airmen, received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2006.
In addition, Harvey won the USAF's very first "Top Gun" competition in 1949, when he and his team lead a grueling 10-day event comprised on aerial gunnery at 20,000 and 12,000 feet, dive bombing, skip bombing, rocketing firing and panel strafing.
After serving a combined 22 years (1943-1965) in the United States Army Air Corps and the United States Air Force, Harvey retired and joined Oscar Mayer as a corporate salesman and settled his family of four girls in Denver, where he still resides.
During the voyage Harvey will share insights from his storied service and remarkable life experiences with other guests as part of a scheduled onboard discussion. Discovery Princess is currently sailing on weeklong, roundtrip cruises from Seattle to Alaska, departing every Sunday through September.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.23 |
+ 8.92% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
80.31 |
+ 5.50% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.32 |
+ 4.45% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
When Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was out on her sea trials she sported a unique entertainment option on her aft decks. This entertainment option never made it past the sea trials. What was this high flying entertainment option?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which cruise ship sported two names (her official name and her marketing name) on her hull as she sailed the Caribbean and elsewhere during the mid-1990s?
Answer - VASCO DA GAMA which sailed as the SEAWIND CROWN.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - May 15, 2023
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Princess Cruises Names Second Sphere Class Ship STAR PRINCESS
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Princess Cruises today revealed the name of its second, sensational Sphere Class cruise ship – Star Princess, which will sail an inaugural season of Mediterranean voyages when she debuts in August 2025.
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, Star Princess joins Sun Princess as the largest ships ever built for Princess at 175,500 tons and carrying 4,300 guests. The new ship is built on a platform that is distinctly different and unique to Princess, designed to simultaneously embrace the Princess heritage while celebrating the romance of the sea by offering more dynamic, outward views.
 While 20 percent larger than any of the line's existing ships, Star Princess design retains the more intimate settings Princess is known for, with a number of new and incredibly ground-breaking spaces such as:
• The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini;
• the next-level Piazza featuring a glass sphere
• the "see it to believe it" Princess Arena, a configurable, technologically-advanced main theater that allows Princess to produce a variety of innovative entertainment concepts; and
• a majestic dining room positioned aft of the ship to deliver unforgettable wake views.
This second Sphere Class ship will also offer a number of spectacular features with an array of exciting new food and beverage concepts; a magnificent, expanded casino; a two-story Lotus Spa; and mesmerizing entertainment headlined by Cirque Éloize.
Guests also will love the expanded accommodations options with luxurious staterooms and suites, including the new Reserve and Signature Collections.
Star Princess also will showcase the exclusive Princess Medallion service that extends Princess' leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences.
The new ship will be the second in the Princess fleet to be powered by LNG fuel technology and also is being built with the most advanced sustainable innovations available.
Star Princess debuts August 4, 2025, sailing a nine-day Inaugural Italy & Greece roundtrip voyage from Rome (Civitavecchia), featuring the destinations of Corfu, Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini and Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), followed by a variety of 9- and 10-day cruises sailing from Rome, Athens or Trieste (Venice) that visit idyllic coastal ports. Star Princess cruises go on sale with the larger Europe 2025 program release on June 1, 2023.
"There's much to be admired about Star Princess - her sleek, eye-catching design, spacious interiors, and of course, the remarkable views of the sea and sky, just like the features found on Sun Princess that have prompted cruise lovers to snap up inaugural year bookings," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "We've carefully designed these ships to feel familiar to our guests yet significantly advanced with lots of exceptional new and expanded experiences to embrace and explore."
Princess' first Star Princess ship initially launched in 1988 as Sitmar Fair Majesty. With the merger of Sitmar Cruises into Princess, she then entered service as Star Princess in 1989, and was christened by legendary actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn. The second Star Princess launched in 2002, as the third Grand-Class vessel playing an instrumental role in the evolution of the brand with popular offerings like Anytime Dining, the only dining program in the industry at the time to give guests freedom to dine where, when and with whom they wish.
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Seabourn Venture Begins Second Expedition Season in the Arctic
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Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, is looking forward to setting sail on its second expedition season in the Arctic. In the early morning hours of May 12, 2023, Seabourn Venture, the line's first purpose-built expedition ship, made its maiden arrival in Greenwich, London in England where it will sail on two voyages to the British Isles and Ireland before embarking on a series of voyages to Greenland and Iceland.
 "Seabourn Venture is a beautiful ship that was purpose built to provide the ultimate expedition experiences and take our extraordinary guests to some of the most fascinating and remote destinations in the world," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "The ship delighted our guests in her first year of service from the Arctic to the Antarctic, and we look forward to continuing to deliver unique 'Seabourn Moments' and an unparalleled luxury expedition that can only be experienced with Seabourn."
On May 12, 2023, Seabourn Venture will set sail from Greenwich to Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland on a 12-day "Lands of the Celts" voyage, followed by an 11-day voyage to the Orkney and Shetland Islands on May 24, 2023, from Leith to Reykjavik, Iceland. From there, the ship will begin its second season in the Arctic with a series of 14- and 15-day voyages to Greenland and Iceland. Between June and August 2023, the ship will visit a number of remote destinations such as Scoresby Sound, Greenland, home to the largest and longest fjord system in the world; Pond Inlet, Nunavut, an Inuit community near the eastern entry to the Northwest Passage, and more.
On August 27, 2023, Seabourn Venture will embark on the line's first-ever voyage through the Northwest Passage with a 23-day adventure from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland to Nome, Alaska, that includes a pre- and post-cruise hotel stays in Reykjavik, Iceland, and Anchorage, Alaska. The ship will offer the extraordinary opportunity to travel one of the most infamous and storied passages in the world from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and filled with an abundance of history, wildlife, and unique landscapes.
Following the Northwest Passage voyage, the ship will head down the West Coast of the Americas before reaching Antarctica, where it will explore the "White Continent" between November 2023 and February 2024. In late February 2024, Seabourn Venture will make a once-in-a-lifetime crossing of the Atlantic encompassing the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Tristan da Cunha, and Ascension Island. In March and April, the ship will take two sailings up the West Coast of Africa and Europe to be in position for the 2024 Arctic season.
Launched in July 2022, Seabourn Venture was designed for guests to enjoy life-expanding moments in exquisite, ultra-luxury comfort. The ship was purpose-built for diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards and equipped with the most modern hardware and technology to extend its global employment and capabilities. The ship is a brand-new innovative design, created specifically for the ultra-luxury expedition traveler, and includes many features that have made Seabourn ships so successful.
Along with an attentive crew providing every level of Seabourn's renowned service, the ship is staffed with a world-class 24-person Expedition Team whose role is to give guests the most from expeditions on land and at sea. Comprised of highly regarded wilderness experts, scientists, historians and naturalists, the team will regularly interact with guests, providing in-depth insights into the history, ecology and culture of the places they visit. Their valuable insights are offered both in formal presentations on a variety of topics and in more casual conversations over meals, on deck during scenic cruising or leisure experiences.
Seabourn Venture stretches 558 feet, with close to 30,000 square-feet of deck space apiece. Indoor and outdoor guest areas offer nearly 270-degree views, while a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera mounted on the mast of the ship's Constellation Lounge broadcasts imagery of natural wonders from up to 5 miles away. The ship is equipped with 8 double kayaks and enough Zodiacs to transport every guest on expeditions at once, as well as two custom-built submarines, each with capacity for six and capability of exploring the natural wonders under the sea in luxurious comfort.
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Carnival Introduces New Restaurant Concept ‘Il Viaggio’ Onboard Carnival Venezia
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Carnival Cruise Line announced today it will debut a new specialty restaurant on board its most recent addition to the fleet, Carnival Venezia, which is aptly named Il Viaggio – Italian for “The Voyage” – since it promises a journey across Italy through the country’s rich and diverse cuisine.
Il Viaggio’s food and beverage offerings are curated to showcase distinct culinary regions of Italy. Each menu item, from “antipasti” starters to “dolce” desserts, is representative of a regional specialty, so guests can create elevated meals that bring together different tastes from all areas of Italy.
 “Highlighting the various Italian regions renowned for certain specialties will invite our guests to enjoy an immersive exploration of flavors – a meal that’s truly unique, delicious and offers an enriching experience as well,” said Emeril Lagasse, Carnival’s chief culinary officer. “Guests will find their favorite Italian staples here, and they’ll also have the chance to try authentic dishes and drinks that might just become new favorites.”
Elevated Menu Will Indulge in the Best of Italian Cuisine
Creatively crafted to offer regional collections across each part of the menu, selections of appetizers, entrees, desserts, wines and cocktails all note diverse regions of Italy where they are most known. The menu will also feature signature dishes, called “Favorito” entrees. Among them is the Sicilian-inspired Pollo Parmigiana Pizza, which is made with a crispy chicken crust pizza with tomato basil sauce, mozzarella, pepperoncini flakes, parmesan and a honey-chili dressing, and the Lombardy-influenced Lombata Milanese, a 16-oz bone-in veal chop that’s thinly pounded, lightly breaded, pan-fried and served with a green salad.
A sampling of menu selections from each of the three courses offered includes:
“Antipasti” – Starters
• House-Made Burrata (Lombardy): A soft, fresh Italian cheese is accompanied by heirloom tomatoes and Genevese pesto.
• Panzarotti (Campania): A golden brown and savory puff stuffed with sausage and pesto.
• Supli al Telefono (Lazio): Crisp risotto croquette filled with mozzarella and marinara sauce.
“Secondi” – Entrees
• Pappardelle Al Cinghiale (Tuscany): Delicious ribbon pasta is tossed with pork ragu in a red wine marinade.
• Jumbo Shrimp Scampi (Venice): A classic scampi sauce is flavored by garlic, pepperoncino, Pinot Grigio and accompanied by lemon risotto.
• Pasta alla Genovese (Liguria): San Marzano tomato sauce flavors ziti pasta, along with cooked onion and simmered beef rib.
“Dolce” – Desserts
• Mile-High Gelato Pie (Tuscany): A special creation that includes the delicious flavors of salted caramel, mocha, toasted coconut and Chantilly cream.
• Cannoli Siciliani di Ricotta (Sicily): Crunchy shells filled with delicious ricotta cheese flavored by marsala wine and chocolate chips.
• Tiramisu (Venice): Espresso-flavored quintessential Italian dessert with mascarpone cream.
Il Viaggio’s culinary team will be led full-time by an Italian executive chef. Carnival’s signature friendly service will make guests feel like family from the moment they enter, and in the fashion of renowned Italian restaurants, the staff will embody the warm hospitality and passion that characterizes Italian culture. The welcoming feeling will help create an exceptional and memorable experience for each guest during every visit.
The refined backdrop of the restaurant will celebrate the theme of journeying through Italy. Through artwork and architectural touches that highlight the different regions featured on the menu, Il Viaggio’s visual aesthetic will bring to life a nuanced portrayal of journeying through diverse Italian landscapes and guests will also have the option to dine al fresco on the restaurant’s lanai. Il Viaggo also features a show kitchen, where guests will see chefs baking the fresh focaccia bread that servers will share at each table to welcome them. Altogether, the intimate ambiance of the restaurant will perfectly complement the menu to create the truly unique culinary voyage that offers guests a unique and immersive dining experience.
Carnival Venezia is the first ship to showcase Carnival Fun Italian Style. It’s currently undergoing an enhancement project in Spain before embarking on a 15-day Carnival Journeys transatlantic sailing May 29, 2023 from Barcelona. The ship is set to arrive to her new home at in New York City and begin operations from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal on June 15, 2023.
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Royal Caribbean Sets Course for New 2024 Adventures in China and a New Ship in Singapore
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Royal Caribbean International has set the date for its return to China in April 2024, with Asia’s largest and most innovative ship, Spectrum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai. Holidaymakers can make memories with family and friends on 4- and 5-night cruises to a combination of popular getaway destinations like Fukuoka, Okinawa, Nagasaki, Osaka, and Tokyo, Japan. Spectrum will also offer eight sailings from Hong Kong, starting in December 2024, to places such as Ishigaki and Miyazaki, Japan; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, China; and Nha Trang, Vietnam.
From one exciting debut to the next: The cruise line’s Anthem of the Seas will sail in Asia for the first time from Singapore in late 2024. Anthem features many of the signature favourites travellers know and love as well as a host of new ways for every type of holidaymaker to experience adventure.
 “This is the moment we – along with Chinese holidaymakers – have been waiting for. Our return to China is an exciting milestone that could only be marked with Spectrum of the Seas, which became a household name with Chinese families and travellers alike when it debuted in Shanghai as the latest and greatest Royal Caribbean ship in 2019,” said Bert Hernandez, senior vice president, International, Royal Caribbean International. “We thank the government of China for establishing a pathway forward and continue to be committed to expanding the cruise industry in a region we have sailed from for more than a decade. This has also opened up a world of opportunities to expand the variety of holidays in Asia, as another award-winning ship sets sail in the region with the introduction of Anthem of the Seas in Singapore.”
Spectrum of the Seas from Shanghai – April 2024
Specially designed for Asia and holidaymakers of all ages, Spectrum features an array of restaurants with regionally inspired menus and entertainment, like Hot Pot, Teppanyaki, Sichuan Red, karaoke lounge Star Moment, and original productions like Showgirls at the Royal Theater. Alongside the familiar comforts is a lineup of adventures only on Royal Caribbean, including skydiving on the RipCord by iFly, scaling more than 90 metres above the ocean on the North Star all-glass observation capsule and The Effectors in the Royal Theater, the cutting-edge, transformative venue that comes alive with performers, robots and more.
And when it comes to luxury, the ship’s exclusive suite enclave has it covered with everything from a two-level, 2,809-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite, featuring an in-suite slide and accommodating up to 11 guests for the ultimate multi-gen family vacation, to private dining, shopping and more.
Anthem of the Seas from Singapore – Late 2024
On Anthem, travellers can look forward to days of play with a variety of experiences to choose from. From lounges and bars to chill at after sunset, such as live music at Latin-themed club Boleros and Brass & Bock – the crowd favourite English pub with a live guitarist and pints of all kinds. Also on deck is showstopping entertainment and thrills, including Olivier Award-winning musical phenomenon We Will Rock You – featuring a score of killer Queen anthems – and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, where guests can enjoy timeless thills like bumper cars. On the menu is a variety of restaurants and spots to grab a bite, such as Solarium Bistro with its Mediterranean-inspired flavours, American shakes, burgers and more at retro-themed Johnny Rockets; and Cafe Promenade, the all-day cafe. Popular dining concepts also return to the region, including classic American steakhouse Chops Grille, fresh Japanese fare at Izumi and whimsical dishes designed for all the senses at Wonderland.
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Cirque Éloize Performances to Headline Entertainment Aboard New Sun Princess
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The incredible artistry of one of the biggest names in entertainment – the renowned Cirque Éloize - will be on full display aboard the newest ship from Princess Cruises when Sun Princess debuts early next year.
The iconic Love Boat and Cirque Éloize today announced a creative collaboration that will bring three spectacular, original contemporary circus performances to the cruise line's newest and largest ship.
The immersive, mesmerizing performances are being specially created for The Dome, a new top-deck, multi-level entertainment venue debuting for the first time onboard Sun Princess. The stunning venue combined with the magnificent performances will deliver emotion, color, and music to create world-class and unforgettable entertainment.
 The Dome embraces amazing natural sky views both day and night, and utilizes state-of-the-art lighting effects and a hidden stage with state-of-the-art technical capabilities to deliver the perfect setting for three shows that will feature eight brilliant acrobatic and aerial performers.
A driving force in Montreal's cultural scene for 30 years and seen by more than 5 million spectators, Cirque E´loize creates, produces, and stages content that enchants audiences worldwide. Cirque E´loize weds the circus arts with music, dance, technology and theater to enthrall audiences seeking meaningful entertainment.
"The Dome is a transformational space that creates a stunning vista with sweeping views of the ocean and creates an unprecedented setting to stage avant-garde spectaculars that will absolutely fascinate our guests," said Francois Leroux, Princess Senior Vice President, Creative Design and Entertainment. "We're thrilled to bring this collaboration with Cirque Éloize to life with three original shows, created specifically for this innovative and spectacular space on our next-generation Sun Princess."
Three, spectacular 20- to 30-minute shows will rotate onboard Sun Princess in The Dome. With disciplines of aerial hoops, aerial pole, bungee, Cyr wheel, silks, mind-bending contortion and more, guests will be enthralled with:
• BLUE – Poetic, Universal, Uplifting: A journey into the magical space between ocean and sky where the spirit of love leads the artists through time and space highlighting both the real and the surreal bringing them to realize that no matter how far they go, the spirit of love is always with them.
• COME FLY AWAY – Playful, Musical, Interactive: This performance evokes notions of the 1950's era Rat Pack and the vibrancy of love. A whimsical retro spectacle in which the bandleader – aided and abetted by his ensemble of misfits – falls head over heels for an audience member. It's a celebration of the lost art of the chase in which all are willing participants.
• ARTBEAT – Uplifting, Colorful, Positive. This upbeat show celebrates the beauty and joy of living life in full color. A kaleidoscope of characters work together in perfect harmony, each contributing their talents to create a truly beautiful masterpiece, reflective of the vibrant heartbeat of the performers and the audience alike.
Cirque Éloize performances will be complimentary and available to Sun Princess guests on a first come, first serve basis.
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess will offer an array of exciting new culinary, entertainment and activity offerings, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories.
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Holland America Line Installs SpaceX's Starlink on First Ship in Alaska
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Holland America Line guests and crew have begun using next generation internet with the introduction of SpaceX's Starlink on its Pinnacle Class ship Koningsdam, now sailing in Alaska. The technology was installed during an April drydock and has been operating for four weeks.
 Starlink is the leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology aimed at providing faster and more reliable Wi-Fi on a global scale. This is particularly important for internet access on ships in Alaska where weather interference and blockage from structures and mountains can challenge traditional technology.
Next generation of internet launches on Koningsdam with preliminary success
"For our guests and our team members, maintaining the connectivity they are accustomed to at home is an important part of the cruise experience," said Gus Antorcha, president, Holland America Line. "Added bandwidth means our guests can share the joys of exploring Alaska in real time and our team can stay in touch with their loved ones back home."
Since receiving the new technology, Koningsdam has sailed an 18-day cruise roundtrip from Vancouver to Hawaii and has begun sailing its 7-day Alaska Inside Passage voyages from Vancouver, including Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.
"While it's early in our usage, the feedback from guests and team members has been very positive so far," said Kathleen Erickson, vice president of technology for Holland America Line. "We're hearing from guests that emails and social media are performing well, and team members tell us that internet calls home to loved ones are much stronger. That's a connection that means a lot."
"High-speed, low-latency internet is critical to our modern lifestyle. We're excited that Holland America Line is seeing strong results in Alaska," said Jonathan Hofeller, vice president of commercial sales for Starlink. "And we look forward to helping Holland America Line and other Carnival Corporation ships continue to bring the connectivity experience for their guests and crew into the modern age."
Koningsdam sails with the Starlink internet capability this summer on over 20 voyages from Vancouver to Alaska's ports. Further ships will add the technology later this year with the goal of Starlink being available across the full Holland America Line fleet.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
10.31 |
- 1.53% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
76.12 |
- 2.85% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
13.71 |
- 3.86% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which cruise ship sported two names (her official name and her marketing name) on her hull as she sailed the Caribbean and elsewhere during the mid-1990s?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
If you were departing on a transatlantic crossing from Pier 90 in New York City in the early 1950's, what shipping company would you most likely have been traveling on?
Answer - In the 1950's when you leave the pier 90, you were on a CUNARD Ocean Liner
courtesy of Clement Mousset
Cruise News - May 8, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Officially Welcomes Vista, First of All-New Allura Class
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Oceania Cruises last night christened its newest ship Vista at a glittering ceremony in Valletta, Malta. The first of the line's Allura Class vessels, the stunning 1,200-guest, all-veranda ship made her debut with a star-studded celebration headlined by her godmother, celebrated Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur and Emmy award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis, and an exclusive performance from legendary Grammy and Emmy award-winning musician Harry Connick, Jr.
 "We have been eagerly awaiting this historic day as we christen our first new ship in more than ten years and pave the way for an exciting future," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "The world-class experience of this beautiful ceremony perfectly aligns with Vista's impeccable onboard experience, which features a stunning design, exceptional entertainment, top-notch service and innovative culinary delights. We are so thankful to our team members and partners worldwide who have worked tirelessly to bring us to Vista's grand debut."
At 791 feet (241 meters) long and more than 67,000 tons with capacity for 1,200 guests at double occupancy, Vista offers a market-leading staffing ratio with two crew members for every three guests. She also boasts the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, which measure more than 290 square feet, plus new Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms for solo travelers. Setting new standards for comfort and residential-style luxury, she features all-veranda accommodations. Vista's elevated variety of onboard activities include eight bars, lounges and entertainment venues plus the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center and Aquamar Spa Terrace.
"I am so honored to have been chosen as godmother of this incredible new ship and be a part of this glorious night in Malta," said Giada De Laurentiis. "From amazing culinary experiences to thoughtful details at every turn, Vista is truly a dream ship. Cheers to this inaugural season and to everyone who sails aboard her."
Vista features 11 onboard culinary venues including three which are new to Vista. These include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes with a hint of indulgence; The Bakery at Baristas, serving tempting freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant, Ember.
With an emphasis on innovating for drinks, as well as all things culinary, Vista is also introducing The Casino Mixology Bar, a new concept for the line, focused entirely on the art of the cocktail.
As godmother, De Laurentiis will create two signature dishes to be served in Toscana, Oceania Cruises' authentic Italian specialty restaurant evolved from rich family traditions, as well as The Grand Dining Room, the luxurious grand dame of the line's culinary venues.
Guests at the christening ceremony were treated to the opening performance of "Into the Night," Vista's dance-centric theatrical show led by renowned "Dancing with the Stars" pro dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart, before De Laurentiis took the stage to officially name and christen Vista with the ceremonial Champagne bottle break across the ship's hull. VIP attendees then enjoyed a concert by headliner and legendary live performer Connick, who delivered 60 minutes of non-stop entertainment. The spectacular evening ended with celebratory fireworks over Valletta's historic harbor.
"I've been honored to perform at countless special occasions but have to say that celebrating this beautiful ship's entry into service was extra special," said Harry Connick, Jr. "Bon voyage, Vista."
Following the seven-night roundtrip VIP christening cruise, Vista will sail her maiden voyage on May 13 from Rome to Venice before embarking on a sold out summer in the Mediterranean. In September, she will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for a series of winter itineraries exploring Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean from her homeport of Miami.
Vista's 2024 summer season will see her sail a series of Grand Voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, visiting an intriguing array of iconic cities and smaller boutique ports throughout Italy, Turkey, Greece and the Holy Lands.
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Cunard Celebrates the Float Out of Queen Anne
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Cunard celebrated a momentous construction milestone today with the float out of Queen Anne at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy.
The 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag, Queen Anne officially touched water for the first time exactly 365 days before she will set sail on her maiden voyage to Lisbon on May 3, 2024.
 The float out completes the first comprehensive phase of construction for Cunard's new ship, Queen Anne.
Steeped in tradition, the float out is marked by a special ceremony where a 'Madrina' is named to offer blessings and best wishes for the ship, celebrating the flow of water into the ship's dry dock.
Carnival UK President Sture Myrmell said: "We are delighted to celebrate this important milestone in the construction of Queen Anne. The float out ceremony marks the ship's transition from her building dock to where she truly belongs – in the water. Today marks a significant moment for Queen Anne as we recognize the dedication by the master ship builders at Fincantieri to build a ship that reinforces our position as a world-famous luxury brand."
Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri, stated: "Queen Anne is the third ship we have the pleasure to build for Cunard, a pillar in the history of British seafaring, with whom we share a real commitment to excellence. Building a liner for this shipowner takes us back to our roots yet, at the same time, spurs us forward to the future in a spirit of determination to bring together tradition and innovation and further strengthen our longstanding relationship."
The float out completes the first comprehensive phase of construction for Queen Anne, which now transitions to focus on building the luxury ship's interiors.
Queen Anne
The design concepts for Cunard's newest ship have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation. The 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest Queen Anne, which spans 14 decks, will offer travellers several breath-taking moments, including the largest curated art collection at sea.
For more than 180 years, Cunard has constantly refined the definitive experience of ocean travel, and Queen Anne will be bursting with Cunard's signature experiences, including world-class dining, exceptional entertainment, and luxurious accommodation.
Entering service in May 2024, Queen Anne will make up a remarkable quartet for Cunard alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth. It will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.
The float out ceremony follows September's iconic keel laying, in which a coin was embedded into the ship's keel by Captain Inger Thorhauge, alongside an original coin from the ship's namesake's reign, to mark the formal start of her construction.
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Royal Caribbean Group Reports First Quarter Earnings and Increases Full Year Guidance
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Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) today reported first quarter Loss per Share of $(0.19) and Adjusted Loss per Share of $(0.23). These results were significantly better than the company's guidance primarily due to strong close-in bookings at higher prices, continued strength of onboard spend, and favorable timing of operating costs. As a result of a record-breaking WAVE season and accelerating demand for its cruise experiences, the company is increasing its 2023 Adjusted Earnings per Share guidance to $4.40 – $4.80.
"We knew that demand for our business was strong and strengthening, but we have been pleasantly surprised with how swiftly demand further accelerated well above historical trends and at higher rates," said Jason T. Liberty, president and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Group. "Leisure travel continues to strengthen as consumer spend further shifts towards experiences. Demand for our brands is outpacing broader travel due to a strong rebound and an attractive value proposition," added Liberty. "We are increasing full year guidance, given the significant momentum in our business, and we are well on our way to achieve our Trifecta goals."
Key Highlights
Stronger than anticipated demand has led to a record-breaking and extended WAVE season, which has and continues to translate into a robust booking environment – driving higher load factors and higher prices. These factors, combined with the continued strength in onboard spending, have led to the significant improvement (versus guidance) in the first quarter and the significant increase in Royal Caribbean's full-year expectations for ticket and onboard revenue, as well as earnings.
First Quarter 2023:
• Load factors in the first quarter were 102%.
• Gross Margin Yields were down 12.4% as-reported and 10.5% in Constant-Currency. Net Yields were up 5.1% as-reported and 5.8% in Constant-Currency, compared to the first quarter of 2019.
• Gross Cruise Costs per Available Passenger Cruise Days ("APCD") increased 8.2% as-reported and 8.8% in Constant-Currency, compared to the first quarter of 2019. Net Cruise Costs ("NCC"), excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 5.2% as-reported and 5.8% in Constant Currency, compared to the first quarter of 2019. Part of the improvement, compared to expectations, was due to favorable timing of operating costs.
• Total revenues were $2.9 billion, Net Loss was $(47.9) million or $(0.19) per share, Adjusted Net Loss was $(58.9) million or $(0.23) per share, Adjusted EBITDA was $641.7 million, and Operating Cash Flow was $1.3 billion.
Full Year 2023 Outlook:
• Net Yields are expected to increase 6.25% to 7.25% as-reported and 6.75% to 7.75% in Constant-Currency, compared to 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to increase 5.2% to 6.2% as-reported and 5.5% to 6.5% in Constant Currency, compared to 2019.
• The company expects to significantly exceed prior record Adjusted EBITDA, achieved in 2019.
• Adjusted Earnings per Share for the full year are expected to be in the range of $4.40 to $4.80 per share.
Second Quarter 2023 Outlook:
• Net Yields are expected to increase 9.6% to 10.1% as-reported and 10.1% to 10.6% in Constant-Currency, compared to the second quarter of 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to increase approximately 8.6% as-reported and approximately 8.9% in Constant Currency, compared to second quarter 2019.
• Adjusted Earnings per Share for the second quarter are expected to be in the range of $1.50 to $1.60 per share.
First Quarter 2023
Royal Caribbean reported Net Loss for the first quarter of $(47.9) million or $(0.19) per share compared to Net Loss of $(1.2) billion or $(4.58) per share for the same period in the prior year. The company also reported Adjusted Net Loss of $(58.9) million or $(0.23) per share for the first quarter compared to Adjusted Net Loss of $(1.2) billion or $(4.57) per share for the same period in the prior year.
First quarter revenue significantly exceeded the company's guidance primarily due to very strong close-in demand, higher load factors at higher prices, and continued strength in onboard revenue. Royal Caribbean said that it experienced particularly strong close-in demand for Caribbean itineraries, which accounted for close to 80% of first quarter capacity.
Gross Cruise Costs per APCD increased 8.2% as-reported and 8.8% in Constant-Currency, compared to 2019. NCC excluding Fuel per APCD increased 5.2% as-reported and 5.8% in Constant-Currency, compared to 2019. Part of the improvement, compared to expectations, was due to favorable timing of operating costs. Gross Cruise Costs per APCD and NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD for the first quarter included $2.87 per APCD of lingering transitional costs and structural costs (e.g. full-year operations of Perfect Day at CocoCay and the new Galveston terminal). In the first quarter, Royal Caribbean said that it continued to benefit from multiple actions taken over the past several years to reshape its cost structure which is helping to offset persistent inflation.
"First quarter results reflect continued strong demand for cruising and our teams' focus on delivering the best vacation experiences that exceed guest expectations," said Naftali Holtz, chief financial officer, Royal Caribbean Group. "We also benefited from favorable timing of operating expenses, as well as our continued focus on improving margins consistent with our Trifecta goals."
Update on Bookings
Booking volumes in the first quarter were significantly higher than the corresponding period in 2019 and were considerably better than expected. This year, WAVE started earlier and extended further, generating a record level of bookings. These strong booking trends resulted in an acceleration of our booked position in relation to prior years. In addition, Royal Caribbean said that it is generating significantly more bookings at meaningfully higher prices than in prior years, particularly from the North American consumer.
The remarkable WAVE booking period resulted in strong close-in demand at higher prices for the first quarter, and enabled a significant improvement in revenue expectations for all three remaining quarters. The increase in yield expectations for the year is predominantly related to higher load factors in the first quarter and higher prices for all four quarters, especially for Caribbean sailings. Consumer spending onboard, as well as pre-cruise purchases, continue to exceed 2019 levels driven by greater participation at higher prices. Royal Caribbean said that it expects load factors to reach historical levels by late spring.
As of March 31, 2023, the Group's customer deposit balance was at a record $5.3 billion.
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Princess Cruises to Homeport Caribbean Princess in Port Canaveral
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For the first time ever, Princess Cruises will homeport in Central Florida. The iconic "Love Boat" brand will re-position its Caribbean Princess ship in late November 2024 to sail eastern and western Caribbean itineraries out of Port Canaveral for its winter season.
 Starting November 27, 2024, the 3,140-passenger ship will sail four to 14-day cruises out of Port Canaveral. Itinerary highlights include:
Princess takes pride in being considered the #1 Large Ship Cruise Line by USA Today due to world-class dining and Broadway-inspired entertainment, all delivered with amazing service and at an exceptional value. Caribbean Princess cruises from Port Canaveral go on sale May 24.
"The combination of a vibrant Central Florida community, exceptional flight options into Orlando International Airport and great pre-cruise and post-cruise experience options makes Port Canaveral an easy choice," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "Princess is unique in its ability to deliver incredible cruise ship amenities typical of the largest ships in the world, while delivering personalized service found on the industry's smallest ships."
The exclusive Princess Medallion powers a personalized, customized and simplified experience for each and every guest. The connected guest experience maximizes guests' vacation time by delivering a host of onboard conveniences including contactless payment for anything on board as well as in select shops and restaurants in ports; expedited embarkation; keyless stateroom entry; muster anywhere; friends and family locator; and ordering food, drinks, retail items or requesting service from their smart phone or stateroom TV and having their order delivered directly to them…even if they are moving.
Establishing Port Canaveral as a homeport is part of the expansion of Princess Cruises' North America presence to offer exciting new voyage options that guests can conveniently access from major drive markets like Central Florida.
"Our collaboration with Princess Cruises marks an exciting milestone for us," stated Capt. John Murray, Port CEO. "The fleet of ships homeported at Port Canaveral continues to grow with next year's arrival of Caribbean Princess. We're looking forward to providing a high-quality experience for our new cruise partners and their cruise guests."
Caribbean Princess features 1,571 staterooms and a total capacity of 3,140 guests and 1,200 crew. It has 19 decks, including 15 passenger decks, and encompasses 112,894 gross tons. It launched in 2004.
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Azamara Reveals New Celebrations and Events for the 2024 World Voyage
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Azamara – the upmarket cruise line and leader in Destination Immersion experiences – is pleased to unveil the 11 AzAmazing Celebrations and three exclusive World Voyage events that will take place on Azamara Onward's World Voyage, departing on January 5, 2024 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. These events have been specially curated for the 2024 World Voyage, giving guests the exciting opportunity to be one of the first to experience these immersive celebrations.
"Having just announced the expansion of our AzAmazing programming, we're pleased to share these carefully crafted events that are sure to make Azamara Onward's first ever World Voyage one to remember," said Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara. "Each of these special celebrations are uniquely tailored to each destination, allowing our guests to get an authentic experience of local culture and traditions in extraordinary venues from the renowned Acropolis Museum in Greece to the historic Nassif House in Saudi Arabia."
 Highlights from the AzAmazing Celebrations and exclusive events taking place on the 2024 World Voyage include:
Exclusive World Voyage Event: Unique Beauty and Wild Extravagance at the Taj Mahal – Mumbai, India
• Only World Voyagers can embark on this exclusive full-day tour of the Taj Mahal. Guests will be flown to the iconic landmark and guided through its rich history and stunning architecture. Travelers will also enjoy a delicious lunch and local entertainment as they spend the day soaking up all the grandeur of the majestic marble structure's intricate design.
AzAmazing Day: The Madang Resort Mini Festival – Madang, Papua New Guinea
• Rather than fight crowds at Papua New Guinea's renowned Cultural Festival, travelers can experience the wonders of this vibrant celebration at the Madang Resort's very own Cultural Festival, held exclusively for Azamara guests. Each distinct tribal group will showcase their traditional customs, dresses, dialects, songs, and dances through spirited performances.
AzAmazing Evening: Croatia's Past and Present – Dubrovnik, Croatia
• During this AzAmazing Evening, travelers can stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Dubrovnik's old town and immerse themselves in Croatia's past and present. Pop-up shows will be set up for Azamara guests throughout including klapa performed by a local vocal group, with local sparkling wine.
Exclusive World Voyage Event: The Turkish Flame – Istanbul, Turkey
• Taking place in the second largest underground cistern in Istanbul, this exclusive World Voyage event will feature traditional Turkish cuisine and beverages served alongside a high-energy performance of modernized folk dances and music from different regions of Anatolia, created just for Azamara's World Voyagers and never to be seen again.
Azamara's 2024 World Voyage is currently sold out, though Azamara is looking to add some last minute cabins for wait list guests.
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Cunard Appoints Katie Mcalister as President
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Cunard has announced the appointment of Katie McAlister as president.
 Katie will join Southampton-based Cunard in August after a 20-year career with TUI where she is currently chief marketing officer, UK & Ireland.
Carnival UK president Sture Myrmell said: "We are delighted to have someone of Katie's calibre join Cunard at this vital time of expansion.
"Her commercial and operational experience as well as digital transformation expertise and strategic oversight will build on the current team's exceptional work to ensure that Cunard's brand and growth opportunities are maximized as we look forward to the introduction of Queen Anne next year."
McAlister said "This was an unrivalled opportunity to join an iconic travel company at a key point in its history. I am so looking forward to joining the team as it widens its appeal and expands its guest base whilst retaining its renowned luxury, signature touches."
Katie started at TUI in 1998 and has held roles across most parts of the organisation, including overseas delivery, commercial, digital and marketing. Most recently as chief marketing officer, she is a member of the UK & Ireland board and leads sales channels and marketing in the UK & Ireland for TUI, First Choice and Marella Cruises, alongside a global responsibility for the TUI brand and digital marketing.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
10.47 |
+ 10.33% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
78.35 |
+ 16.98% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.26 |
- 1.93% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
If you were departing on a transatlantic crossing from Pier 90 in New York City in the early 1950's, what shipping company would you most likely have been traveling on?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What was the name of the first steam turbine powered vessel and where did she make her debut?
Answer - TURBINIA which made its debut at the 1897 Spitshead Naval Review in the UK
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - May 1, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Takes Delivery of Newest Ship Vista
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Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has welcomed its newest ship – Vista. Delivered at Fincantieri's shipyard in Genoa, Italy, Oceania Cruises' initial Allura Class ship features several firsts in the realms of dining, accommodation and guest experience.
This 67,000-ton, 791-foot-long ship is one of the most anticipated new ships to join the global cruise fleet in 2023. The 1,200-guest Vista boasts the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, three brand-new dining concepts and operates with a market-leading service ratio of two staff members for every three guests. She is highly anticipated by brand loyal and new guests alike, with only a few select staterooms available for her inaugural summer season in the Mediterranean.
 Vista builds on Oceania Cruises' exemplary reputation of destination-rich itineraries with world-class service and The Finest Cuisine at Sea by offering 11 culinary venues, three of which are new concepts – Ember, a signature restaurant featuring elevated American cuisine; Aquamar Kitchen, which brings wellness offerings to a new level; and The Bakery at Baristas, an expansion of popular coffee bar Baristas, serving freshly baked French and Italian pastries. In addition to an elevated mixology program with innovative specialty cocktails, Vista's new Broadway-caliber productions feature recognizable songs by some of the world's most beloved artists and contemporary dance numbers led by "Dancing with the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart.
"Today we usher in a new era for Oceania Cruises with the delivery of Vista," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "We could not have built such an exceptional ship without the close partnership enjoyed with Fincantieri. We thank each and every person who had a hand in bringing her to life. From the smallest of design details to the largest per capita galley at sea, Vista is a marvel that will be enjoyed by guests for decades to come."
When constructing Vista, Fincantieri's key intention was to embody Oceania Cruises' commitment to luxury and top-of-the-line guest experiences. The innovative ship is a reflection of Fincantieri's extensive abilities and commitment to quality.
Vista will be christened on May 8, 2023, in an exclusive glittering ceremony in Valletta, Malta, by her godmother, celebrated Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur and Emmy Award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis. The christening is due to begin at 9 PM CEST, and the event will be livestreamed at 12 PM PDT/3 PM EDT/8 PM BST/9 PM CEST/5 AM AEST (next day) for anyone who wishes to join. The event site and livestream registration can be found here: www.VistaCelebration.com.
After her summer season in the Mediterranean, Vista will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for a series of winter itineraries exploring the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.
As Oceania Cruises takes delivery, the line announces its leadership team for Vista. The newly appointed shipboard leaders bring widespread experience from longstanding careers in the industry to their new roles leading 800 crew members on the 1,200-guest ship.
Vista Leadership Team
Captain Luca Manzi: Born in Chiavari, just east of Portofino, Italy, Captain Luca Manzi, Vista's dynamic leader, has always been fascinated by life at sea. He graduated from the Marine Academy and the Navy Academy. With a career spanning over three decades, including serving as a lieutenant in the Italian Navy and commanding cargo ships, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role.
Staff Captain Edgardo Cossu: A native of Sardinia, Italy, Edgardo Cossu was born and raised in the small fishing village of Camogli, known as the "City of a Thousand White Sailing Ships." Ever since he was a child, he had a passion for the sea, deciding to embark at a young age as a sailor working on small local ferries and private yachts. After graduating maritime nautical school, he began his career sailing around the world working on cargo and cruise ships.
General Manager Dominique Nicolle: Hailing from Brittany, France, Dominique Nicolle started his career as a trained chef working in high-end restaurants in Germany. In 1994, he entered the cruise industry during which time he has held multiple positions ranging from chef to general manager.
Executive Chef Frederic Camonin: Born in France, Frederic Camonin has been surrounded by cooking for as long as he can remember, starting with his family's catering business. Since attending culinary school in Verdun he has myriad experiences to his credit including time spent at French restaurants and brasseries as well as catering. For the past 20 years, he has dedicated his life to traveling the world as a chef at sea, furthering his passion for elevated cuisine.
Food & Beverage Director Susanna Cahyadi: Susanna Cahyadi was born and raised on a farm in the North West province of South Africa. She completed her studies in hospitality management in Phalaborwa and worked at various private game reserves and lodges before joining Insignia in 2011. She relished her time on board and has expanded her career at sea ever since.
Cruise Director Paul Baya: Originally from Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, Paul Baya now resides in Coconut Grove (Miami), Florida. He attended Lynchburg College in Virginia on a singing scholarship majoring in communications and minoring in theatre performance. In 1995, days after graduating college, Paul started working on board his very first ship which launched his illustrious career in the industry.
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Coronation Celebrations at Sea on board Cunard's Three Queens
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Cunard joins the celebration in marking the historic coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort with a range of coronation-themed activities planned on all three of its Queens.
 From street parties in the majestic Grand Lobby to themed musical performances, films and quizzes, guests on board Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth will be able to truly immerse themselves in the regal festivities.
An exclusive Coronation dinner menu has been created for the evening of Saturday, May 6, inspired by King Charles' love of farming, agriculture, game, and organic principles. It features a selection of specially curated dishes showcasing some of his favorite ingredients, to create a meal that perfectly commemorates this auspicious occasion.
Specially designed cocktails will be available to toast Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort, including a "Coronation Oath" made with Prosecco, White Vermouth, Grapefruit and Cardamom Bitters and a "Monarch Martini" using Cunard's 3 Queens Gin.
All three ships will be at sea for the big day and will broadcast the ceremony live from Westminster Abbey into the ships' Royal Court Theatres and stateroom TVs. Queen Elizabeth guests will be just starting their nine-night tour of Southern Japan and Taiwan, visiting the stunningly beautiful island of Hualien and the idyllic tropical paradise of Miyakojima, while Queen Victoria will be returning from a 12-night voyage around the Canary Islands.
A brand-new Coronation Celebration voyage was announced earlier this week, with Queen Mary 2 sailing roundtrip from Southampton on May 2 to Cunard's spiritual home port of Liverpool.
Cunard's world-renowned Insights program across the fleet will feature royal commentator Dickie Arbiter, historian Caroline Aston and etiquette expert Grant Harrold.
Each ship will also host a deck walk in honor of The Big Help Out on Monday May 8, to raise money for youth charity The Prince's Trust, a proud partner of Cunard's for the past 15 years since the Queen Consort was named as godmother to Queen Victoria in 2007. This significant milestone will be celebrated on a special British Isles voyage in August. To date, thanks to the generosity of guests, crew and friends, Cunard has raised over $3.37 million for the Trust. The charity helps young people who have faced disadvantage and adversity to build a better future for themselves, through employment, education and enterprise.
Cunard's royal connections date back to August 1861, when Prince Alfred sailed from Halifax to Liverpool on Cunard's SS Arabia. More recently, Cunard is immensely proud that members of the royal family have graced each of the ships in its current fleet.
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Seabourn Debuts First-ever "Grand Africa Voyage"
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Seabourn is inviting travelers to explore the exotic and dynamic lands of Africa with its first-ever "Grand Africa Voyage." Departing November 30, 2024, Seabourn Sojourn will circumnavigate the continent and sail more than 17,000 miles during a 90-day roundtrip adventure from Barcelona, Spain. The journey will offer a world of experiences for guests, visiting 44 marquee and off-the-beaten path ports and cities throughout 26 countries, with six overnight stays on the itinerary. Open for sale now, the full itinerary and additional details are available on Seabourn's website.
 The only ultra-luxury ship to sail around the entire continent, Seabourn Sojourn will visit a blend of historically profound destinations on its Grand Africa Voyage. Highlights include Alexandria, Cairo, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem; luscious, tropical paradises such as the Seychelles and Bom Bom Island; lands with breathtaking, diverse landscapes and wildlife such as Kenya, Madagascar and Zanzibar; and culturally rich destinations such as Cape Town, Morocco and Mozambique. In addition to renowned destinations, guests can discover Africa's lesser-known gems such as Luanda, the "Paris" of Africa, and Cape Verde, the "Gateway to the West."
"Seabourn guests are accomplished, extraordinary people who are seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Our new Grand Africa Voyage is the result of our commitment to offering unforgettable 'Seabourn Moments' in some of the world's most unique and exotic destinations," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. "This voyage is the perfect opportunity for our guests to discover Africa's stunning natural wonders and diverse cultures, while enjoying the uncompromising luxury and intuitive, genuine service that can only be experienced on Seabourn."
Once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences available on the Grand Africa Voyage are endless. Guests can explore Africa's natural beauty via safari, hikes, scuba, snorkeling and other enriching cultural experiences, such as a visit to a camel milk farm, botanical gardens, living archaeological museums, and more. In addition, several optional multi-day Seabourn Journeys will be available at various destinations, offering in-depth opportunities to explore treasured sites on land that cannot be accessed on single-day excursions from the ship, including a gorilla sanctuary, Victoria Falls and more.
Featured destinations on the Grand Africa Voyage include:
• Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt – Guests will get a glimpse into Egypt's rich past and present while spending an evening in Cairo, Egypt's second-largest city and epicenter of cultural and historical significance, offering a fascinating blend of ancient landmarks, stunning architecture, and vibrant markets. Guests will have the option to join an excursion to see the Pyramids at Giza.
• Safaga (Luxor), Egypt - Located on the Egyptian side of the Red Sea, Safaga is the gateway to some of Egypt's most memorable destinations: Luxor, Karnak and Thebes. Luxor has often been called the world's greatest open-air museum, and the number and preservation of the monuments in the area are unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
• Mombasa, Kenya – Guests can experience Kenya's wildlife up close in Mombasa with overnight Seabourn Journeys, including Tsavo National Park Safaris, a Masai Mara National Reserve Safari and a Rwanda Gorilla Trek. Mombasa, a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, warm climate, rich history and delicious cuisine, has a blend of African, Arabic, and European cultures.
• Cape Town, South Africa – Known as the "Mother City" of South Africa, Cape Town is a cosmopolitan metropolis of breathtaking natural beauty, with iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage that reflects its unique blend of African, European, and Asian influences. It's also a hub for adventure tourism, offering a range of thrilling outdoor activities to enjoy, including catamaran sailing, kayaking and more.
• Bom Bom Island, Sao Tome & Principe – Seabourn guests will enjoy a beach BBQ on Bom Bom Island, a hidden gem of natural beauty and tranquility. With its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear waters, visitors can expect a serene and unforgettable experience in one of Africa's most enchanting destinations.
• Casablanca, Morocco – Guests will spend an evening in Casablanca, the vibrant economic hub of Morocco. With its bustling souks, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, it offers visitors a unique and authentic taste of Moroccan life, steeped in history, culture, and tradition.
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Holland America Line Kicks Off 2023 Alaska Season with 150th Anniversary Events
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Holland America Line kicked off its 2023 Alaska cruise season today with the arrival of Eurodam at Port of Seattle. Known as "Seattle's Hometown Cruise Line," Holland America Line marked the day with a welcome celebration at Pier 91 that included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Miss Washington Regan Gallo and Miss Alaska Jessica Reisinger.
Eurodam and Westerdam sail roundtrip from Seattle; Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam and Volendam from Vancouver
 To honor its 150th Anniversary, Holland America Line presented a commemorative plaque to Port of Seattle and made a donation to Seattle-based organization The Pastry Project. Fanfare on the pier also included a performance by an ensemble from the University of Washington marching band. Westerdam begins its Alaska season cruising roundtrip from Seattle Sunday, May 7, 2023.
"As the pioneer and leader in Alaska cruising, Holland America Line is excited to start the season today celebrating our 150th Anniversary in our hometown," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "Not only is Holland America Line headquartered in Seattle, but it's a key homeport for our brand. With two ships based here and four more in Vancouver through September, we're ready for a robust Alaska season of cruising and cruisetours including land trips to Denali and Yukon."
Holland America Line also cruises to Alaska via Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and those sailings begin Monday, May 1, with Koningsdam. On Tuesday, May 2, the cruise line will hold a celebratory event in Vancouver on Noordam with a 150th Anniversary plaque presentation to Port of Vancouver and a donation to YWCA Crabtree Corner. Nieuw Amsterdam and Volendam sail from Vancouver this season, rounding out the six Holland America Line ships in Alaska through September.
Highlights for 2023 Seattle Cruises to Alaska:
• Holland America Line will operate a full season out of Seattle on two ships with 48 departures and more than 97,000 guests.
• Operationally, each ship visit directly contributes $400,000 to the local economy in provisioning (fuel, food, flowers, piano tuning, supplies), port taxes, and spending.
• Seven-day "Alaskan Explorer" cruises sail roundtrip from Seattle aboard Eurodam and Westerdam, and include calls at Victoria, British Columbia (evening stay); and Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka, all in Alaska.
• Holland America Line ships have been sailing from the Port of Seattle since the 1970s. In May 2002, Holland America Line began using Seattle as a home port for Alaska cruises.
Highlights for 2023 Vancouver Cruises to Alaska:
• Holland America Line will operate a full season out of Vancouver on four ships with 75 departures and more than 158,000 guests.
• Holland America Line offers more cruises to Alaska from Canada than any other cruise line.
• Operationally, each ship visit also directly contributes $550,000 CND to the local economy.
• Seven-day "Alaska Inside Passage" cruises sail roundtrip from Vancouver on Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam and Volendam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• Seven-day "Glacier Discovery Northbound" and "Glacier Discovery Southbound" itineraries cruise between Whittier and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• The 14-day "Great Alaska Explorer" itinerary offers an in-depth adventure. Roundtrip from Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam (May 7) and Noordam (Sept. 17), the cruise calls at the Alaskan ports of Kodiak, Anchorage, Valdez, Sitka, Skagway and Ketchikan, and features Glacier Bay.
Highlights for All 2023 Cruises and Cruisetours to Alaska:
• Every Alaska cruise includes a visit to one or more of Alaska's iconic glacier destinations: Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and the Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm.
• Holland America Line is the only cruise line with Alaska seafood certified sustainable by the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM), so the seafood served on our Alaska cruises is fresh and certified sustainable.
• All ships cruising in Alaska feature "Alaska Up Close," expanded onboard programming: guests can engage with an Alaska naturalist, special EXC presentations explore local topics such as Alaska's bush pilots and the famous Iditarod race, tours highlight the best of each destination, fine dining events showcase the culinary traditions of the region and cruises with Glacier Bay take on a National Park Ranger and local Huna Tlingit guides.
• "Savor My Catch" allows guests to take a fishing shore excursion and the ship chefs prepare the bounty on board for dinner.
• Holland America Line is the only cruise company to weave must-see sites such as Denali National Park — the centerpiece of every Cruisetour — with the unspoiled reaches of Canada's Yukon Territory.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.49 |
+ 2.26% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
66.98 |
+ 7.32% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.54 |
+ 11.42% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the name of the first steam turbine powered vessel and where did she make her debut?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
From the late 1800's until the Queen Mary entered service in 1936 the names of almost all of Cunard's fleet ended in a distinctive manner. How did they end and what was the significance of the ending?
Answer - Prior to 1936 almost all Cunard ships' names ended in IA after ancient Roman territories.
courtesy of Timothy Edgecombe
Cruise News - April 24, 2023
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Viking Takes Delivery of Newest Ocean Ship
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Viking today announced it has taken delivery of the company's newest ocean ship, the Viking Saturn. The delivery ceremony took place this morning when the ship was presented at Fincantieri's shipyard in Ancona, Italy. Viking also announced that the Viking Saturn will be officially named in New York City on June 6, 2023, by her ceremonial godmother, Ann Ziff, the esteemed philanthropist and Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera—a longtime Viking cultural partner. Following the naming ceremony, the ship will spend her inaugural summer sailing two new Viking voyages: Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada, between New York City and Reykjavík, and Iceland & Norway's Arctic Explorer, between Reykjavík and Bergen.
 "We are very proud to welcome the newest sister ship to our award-winning ocean fleet," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "We are also grateful that Ann Ziff has honored us by serving as godmother of the Viking Saturn. Having traveled with us for years, Ann is a loyal Viking guest, and she shares our commitment to the arts and cultural enrichment. Her contributions to the Metropolitan Opera, one of our longtime cultural partners, as well as many other important causes are truly impressive."
"I am delighted to serve as godmother of the Viking Saturn," said Ann Ziff. "For those who are curious about the world, there is no better way to explore and immerse yourself than from the comfort of a Viking ship."
Ann Ziff, Godmother of the Viking Saturn
A dedicated philanthropist focused on the arts, education, culture and environmental conservation, Ann Ziff is Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera and serves on several boards, including the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Sing for Hope, the World Science Festival and the Los Angeles Opera. Passionate about bringing culture and arts into the lives of children in need, she co-founded Smile Train and was a board member at Maloto, an organization that provides education and housing for abused and abandoned girls in Malawi. Ms. Ziff also has an eponymous fine jewelry brand, Tamsen Z, where she designs and creates one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by her love of culture, art and music as well as her travels as a loyal Viking guest.
Viking and the Metropolitan Opera
The Metropolitan Opera is home to the most creative and talented musicians around the world and has been a Viking cultural partner since 2016. On board Viking's ocean ships, guests are treated to the Metropolitan Opera's award-winning Live in HD series, including an exclusive viewing of Mozart's The Magic Flute. As part of Viking's continued commitment to support enriching cultural programming, other premier partnerships and sponsorships include Ballet Sun Valley, BBC, Highclere Castle, Los Angeles Philharmonic, PBS' MASTERPIECE, RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Oslo's Munch Museum, TED and many others.
The Viking Saturn
The Viking Saturn is the newest ship in Viking's award-winning ocean fleet of identical sister ships. Classified by Cruise Critic as "small ships," Viking's ocean vessels have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that host 930 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, Scandinavian design, light-filled public spaces and abundant al fresco dining options.
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Holland America Line Marks 150th Anniversary in Rotterdam with Royalty
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Holland America Line's flagship Rotterdam arrived at the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, this morning following a 150th Anniversary crossing that departed Fort Lauderdale, Florida, April 3. The ship's arrival on the exact date of Holland America Line's 150th birthday kicked off all-day celebrations that included royalty, local dignitaries, port officials and guests who commemorated the special day.
Princess Margriet joined festivities at historic headquarters; anniversary parties across the Holland America Line Fleet
 Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha was joined by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb and descendants of Holland America Line's original founders for a celebration at Hotel New York, home to Holland America Line's original headquarters from 1901 to 1977.
"The celebration of 150 years is about more than our history, it's about how we are building on the legacy of a great brand to make it relevant for the next 150 years," said Antorcha. "From those first early days, we built our reputation on the care we provided to every person who stepped on board. And through the decades, whether that person was an immigrant, a titan of industry, a soldier or a vacationer, each of them was treated as though they were a guest in our own home. It is still a hallmark of our brand.
"The fabric of history is woven from the threads of millions of stories, and at the heart of each of those stories is a person," Antorcha continued. "I am certain that there are many chapters still to be written. And I hope that decades from now, those who come after us will gather on this very spot at Hotel New York to share them."
From the ship's arrival through an overnight stay, memorable moments marked the milestone. Inside a room that once collected luggage for immigrants in the early 1900s, Holland America Line presented a commemorative 150th Anniversary bell to be permanently displayed at Hotel New York. Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet poured champagne over the bell, which is a Holland America Line tradition usually reserved for a new ship launch.
Holland America Line worked closely with PostNL, the postal office of the Netherlands, to design a collectable 150th Anniversary gold-foil stamp that was revealed by Bob van Ierland, director of mail, Netherlands, at the ceremony. The stamp, designed by Frank Janse, features an illustration of two iconic ships from the company's long history: Rotterdam VII, Holland America Line's newest ship, and Rotterdam I, its first ship. The limited-edition stamp is available for purchase throughout the Netherlands.
In addition, members of one of Holland America Line's founding families presented an original company share that will be kept as part of a special collection in the Rotterdam City Archives. Attendees at the Hotel New York ceremony included Holland America Line team members and more than 60 of the line's top Mariners, guests who have sailed at least 1,400 days on the line's ships.
Following a Gala dinner on board Rotterdam VII, Antorcha invited the ship's guests to a party around the Lido Pool where he toasted to Holland America Line's anniversary alongside ship's Captain Bas van Dreumel and Mai Elmar, executive director of Cruise Port Rotterdam and the ship's madrina.
"To the builders, architects, visionaries and explorers who have brought us to today. To our generations of crew who have seen our guests from shore to shore. And most importantly, to all of the passengers and guests who have trusted us along the way. Cheers to 150 years and many more to come," toasted Antorcha.
As a finale to the evening's events, the city of Rotterdam's Erasmus Bridge was illuminated with a special light display honoring Holland America Line's 150th Anniversary. Following the lighting of the bridge, Antorcha made his way to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and joined Zuiderdam and Grand World Voyage guests around the Lido Pool to commemorate Holland America Line's birthday. The additional nine ships in Holland America Line's fleet also held anniversary parties on board for guests.
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Carnival Jubilee Celebrates the Sea and Shores With Two New Zones
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Carnival Jubilee, the next new ship in the Excel class, will debut fun, unique and immersive ocean-themed experiences in two new zones: Currents and The Shores, along with guest favorites and, of course, the fleet's third roller coaster at sea when she debuts later this year. To take a look at all of her unique features, click here.
 Currents, encompassing Deck 6 and Deck 7, is an awe-inspiring, immersive and transformative space that takes guests below the waves with a playful vibe featuring innovative technology, new and exciting bar and dining venues and live music. When guests step into Currents, they will be transported to mesmerizing underwater worlds, both realistic and fantastical, in a beautiful space that changes from day to night and throughout the cruise. The portals to the sea comprise six huge LED windows which, along with a massive wave-shaped LED ceiling, theatrical show lighting and captivating sound design will create a variety of immersive environments for guests to enjoy as they try new, unique cocktails and flavorful dishes. Venues within Currents include:
• Dr.Inks, Ph.D – Eight crafty octopus arms adorn this fun bar, inspired by the cleverest of sea creatures who spends her time philosophizing about life underwater while enjoying a tasty libation. Unique ocean-themed drinks such as color-changing cocktails, jellyfish and layered shots and playful items featuring sea foam, boba pearls and unique garnishes are as visually striking as they are delicious. Dr.Inks' fun and quirky personality is at the center of this experience and comes to life through her musings on the menu and her favorite books, journals and fountain pens on display. Guests will enjoy tasty drinks, live music and great company as they relax and people-watch at this along-the-way bar surrounded by an environment that transports guests to Dr.Inks' underwater home.
• The Golden Mermaid – This ultra-stylish lounge is home to a mysterious golden mermaid who swims to the depths of the oceans to find long-lost treasures of ancient civilizations and uncovers secret cocktail recipes. Cocktails inspired by precious gemstones and metals are made with edible glitter, as well as drinks presented in pretty glassware and adorned with graceful garnishes for an elevated experience. The live band on stage will provide a lively backdrop to fun conversation and the comfortable lounge seating is the perfect place to relax with an elegant drink before or after dinner.
• Emeril's Bistro 717 – The line's Chief Culinary Officer, renowned chef and restauranteur Emeril Lagasse, is back by popular demand, bringing guest-favorite creole cuisine, an expansive seafood selection and expanded raw bar created in his unique style. Named after Carnival Jubilee's hull number at Meyer Werft in Germany, Emeril's Bistro 717 will serve a rich breakfast with dishes such as shrimp and grits, poached eggs and fixings and sweet beignets. Guests will also enjoy lunch and dinner with seafood creations such as creole boiled shrimp, fresh oysters, stone crab (seasonally) and lobster, as well as authentic Louisiana cuisine featuring Emeril's signature jambalaya, New Orleans-style barbeque shrimp and duck and sausage gumbo. As if all that flavor wasn't enough, guests can enjoy their meal while sitting beneath impressive LED windows and a ceiling array creating a unique underwater dining experience.
Additional venues in Currents include guest favorites Alchemy Bar and Carnival Kitchen.
On Deck 8, The Shores is the place where the ocean meets land, a zone that's inspired by the ways people enjoy the seaside including piers, boardwalks and beaches. An impressive three-deck-high fish school art installation rises from Deck 6 all the way to Deck 8 to bring guests up from the Currents below to the surface.
Guests will stroll along the boardwalk alongside colorful and playful designs, including a fun Ferris wheel- inspired ceiling feature, and casual seating areas, both inside and outside. Guests can enjoy a fresh hot pizza at Coastal Slice or try a tasty sandwich or hot dog at Beach Buns. Marina Bar features fun nautical designs and comfortable lounge seating for enjoying coffee and cocktails inside by the boardwalk or outside by the sea. Rudi's Seagrill and Cucina del Capitano return with indoor and al fresco seating.
The other four zones of Carnival Jubilee will be home to spectacular activities and venues that guests have gotten to love on both Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. From the transformational three-deck-high atrium that guests see when they first board to the fun for all-ages attractions that fill the top deck, the ship will also include these zones that are sure to wow:
• Grand Central – The heart of Carnival Jubilee, this awe-inspiring area of the ship spans Deck 6, 7 and 8. During the day, it's a beautiful space for guests to enjoy a drink from the JavaBlue Café, or one of the area's bars as they take in breathtaking ocean views. At night, the zone transforms as movable LED screens and a stage create an innovative entertainment space which allows for truly spectacular performances. Grand Central also connects guests to guest favorites, including Piano Bar 88, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Cloud 9 Fitness Center, Cherry on Top, Bonsai Sushi and Teppanyaki, a variety of shopping venues, as well as the casino and theater.
• The Ultimate Playground – BOLT, the Ultimate Sea Coaster, is the centerpiece of the ship's top deck and features all-electric, motorcycle-inspired vehicles that race along the 800-foot-long track, 187 feet above the sea achieving speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. BOLT will soar above other popular attractions designed for fun for all ages, including WaterWorks aqua park and SportSquare featuring a mini-golf course, full-court basketball and an exhilarating ropes course.
• Summer Landing – Beyond The Shores zone, Summer Landing will continue Deck 8's relaxed vibe and bring together some of Carnival guests' favorites. This area is home to Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, which offers smoked-onboard favorites created by longtime Carnival partner, celebrity chef and restaurateur Guy Fieri and an assortment of Carnival's ParchedPig craft beers from the onboard brewery. Other popular venues include the Heroes Tribute Lounge, honoring military personnel, as well The Patio – which features a pool and whirlpools – and The Watering Hole poolside bar.
• Lido – The poolside zone, which spans Decks 16 and 17, is home to the Carnival Seaside Theater, two-story RedFrog Tiki Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and guest-favorite Guy's Burger Joint. Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken restaurant, Seafood Shack, Street Eats, Lido Marketplace, Circle C, Club 02 and The Warehouse Arcade ensure this area is packed with something for everyone.
Carnival Jubilee first sails from Galveston on Dec. 23, 2023, joining Carnival Breeze and Carnival Dream operating from Galveston year-round, offering week-long Western Caribbean cruises. In 2024, Carnival will increase its deployment in Galveston to four ships when Carnival Miracle begins operating a new series of longer cruises from the port.
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Msc Cruises Launches Year-round Sailings on Msc Meraviglia from New York
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MSC Cruises—the world's third-largest and fastest growing cruise line—arrived in New York City this morning when MSC Meraviglia docked at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Starting Saturday, the modern and glamorous megaship will sail from the Big Apple to The Bahamas and Florida, Canada and New England, and Bermuda. Itineraries will be available year-round, resulting in a sizeable and ongoing economic impact to the region and confirming MSC Cruises' commitment to the New York cruise market.
MSC Meraviglia is one of the world's biggest ships, with a long list of activities and amenities to match. She is known as "The Ship for All Seasons" thanks to expansive indoor and outdoor public spaces and a pool deck with a roof that opens and closes depending on the weather. MSC Cruises is deploying the ship to New York as part of an ongoing pledge to bring its largest, most modern ships to the U.S. market as it continues to grow in the region. New York City joins Miami and Port Canaveral on the cruise line's roster of North American homeports.
Rubén Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: "When we chose New York as the next step in our North American expansion, we knew that MSC Meraviglia would be the perfect ship, given her versatility and offerings for a wide variety of climates. She's big and innovative, she offers something for everyone, and now she's more accessible than ever for our guests in and around New York. We're thrilled to give guests from the Northeast a direct link to our private destination—Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—which is part of our fantastic itineraries to The Bahamas. As the year goes on, they'll have other options like spending several days exploring Bermuda, or heading north for the breathtaking fall foliage in Canada and New England."
Itineraries from New York on MSC Meraviglia include:
• The Bahamas and Florida – Tropical 7- to 11-night sailings with a selection of destinations including Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, The Bahamas; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.
• Bermuda – Starting in August, guests can enjoy 5- and 6-night sailings to Kings Wharf in Bermuda, with several days in port to explore the beauty of the island.
• Canada and New England – Just in time for the fall, MSC Meraviglia will offer 10- and 11-night itineraries calling at Newport, Boston and Portland in the U.S and Saint John, Halifax, Charlottetown, and Sydney in Canada.
Economic Impact
According to data from the NYC Economic Development Corporation and CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association, MSC Cruises' expansion to New York City and ongoing deployment of MSC Meraviglia in the region is expected to generate significant economic impact:
• Up to 10,000 full time-equivalent jobs, including the direct hiring of 150 New Yorkers to facilitate terminal operations in partnership with SMS International Shore Operations and NYC's Workforce1.
• More than 200,000 domestic and international visitors to the city each year.
• Up to $102 million in local spending each year while those visitors are ashore.
About MSC Meraviglia
At 1,036 feet long and 213 feet tall, with an impressive 19 decks and capacity of more than 5,700 guests, MSC Meraviglia is a vacation destination in its own right—packed with innovative features to provide an unforgettable experience, including:
• 10 different types of staterooms to choose from, including solo cabins, popular balcony cabins, and stylish suite accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club – the premium 'ship within a ship' featuring butler service, along with an exclusive restaurant, lounge, and pool area.
• Galleria Meraviglia, a promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars that stretches more than 315 feet and is lined with an impressive LED sky screen.
• 20 bars and 12 restaurants, including the popular Butcher's Cut steakhouse, Ocean Cay, HOLA! Tacos and Cantina, and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki.
• Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, together with one of the most intricate water parks at sea, featuring three twisting slides and an intricate ropes course—the Himalayan Bridge.
• Seven different shows in the 985-seat Broadway Theatre and the famous Carousel Lounge.
• The extensive MSC Aurea Spa, providing massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, and a dedicated thermal area.
• The 6,000 square-foot gym featuring state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym framed with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, overlooking the main pool deck.
• Entertainment area including the MSC Formula Racer, a full-sized bowling alley with two lanes, an interactive XD cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade.
• Sportsplex with facilities for basketball, tennis, squash, volleyball, Pickle Ball, mini golf and five-a-side soccer.
• MSC Kids' Club for children 0-17 years old, with dedicated areas for babies, toddlers, children and teenagers, plus the Lego Experience.
Environmental Features
MSC Meraviglia is fitted with innovative technology and solutions to minimize her environmental footprint. These include an exhaust gas cleaning system for cleaner emissions; an advanced wastewater treatment system; smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to recover heat from machinery spaces; and LED lighting and smart devices to significantly save energy. This is part of MSC Cruises' commitment to provide its guests with the best holiday experiences at sea in a sustainable manner.
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Oceania Cruises Marks 20th Anniversary and the Launch of New Ship, Vista with 20-Year-Old Small-Batch Cask of Whisky
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Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, is delighted to partner with multi-award-winning whisky brand Chapter 7 on the creation of an exclusive 20-year-old small-batch cask of whisky to celebrate the launch of its stunning new ship, Vista, and the brand's 20th anniversary.
Just 304 bottles of the whisky will be drawn and will be available for purchase by guests sailing on board Vista during her inaugural season this summer.
 This exciting partnership comes as part of a long-term collaboration with Oceania Cruises and cruise retail market leader Harding+.
"We are excited about the immersive approach that Harding+ and Chapter 7 are bringing to the launch of Vista and the continuing celebrations of our 20th anniversary," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "The importance of guest understanding is at the heart of this partnership, and innovative, emotional approaches in telling our brand stories, which engage all the senses, are at the heart of Oceania Cruises."
Sebastian Harding, Director of Operations at Chapter 7 Whisky, added, "We are honored to bring our 20-year aged special cask to such a special occasion for Oceania Cruises. We believe a cask is like a character in a novel, where the best ones tug at the heartstrings and don't let go. We believe our 304 specially curated bottles can play just that role of character for Vista's guests, as they discover something special that perfectly complements their cruise experience."
The 1,200-guest ship caters to inquisitive travelers, food and wine connoisseurs and affluent individuals, and Harding+'s quaternity model of working balances the cruise ship profile with guest needs, brand fit and insights, as well as Harding+ retail knowledge.
Paul Cunningham, Director of Buying from Harding+, explained: "We always strive to make every cruise better and the storytelling behind the uniqueness of this one-off approach is sure to grab the attention of discerning guests in both the content and the channels we are using to bring things to life. We know Oceania Cruises guests are curious travelers and this premium approach fits the Vista story and style."
To celebrate the production of this one-off cask, Harding+ has produced a special film that tells the story of luxury, rarity and the creative passion behind the whisky-making process. The film brings to life the cask selection process and the journey that flows from that through to the bottling, the nosing and the palate test.
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Holland America Line First Grand Voyage 'Pole-to-Pole' Cruise Roundtrip from the U.S.
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Holland America Line will sail what is believed to be the first ever Grand Voyage "Pole-to-Pole" roundtrip from the United States in 2025. Details of the new 133-day sailing along with a simultaneous 124-day 2025 Grand World Voyage were announced today by President Gus Antorcha aboard Zuiderdam to Grand World Voyage guests currently sailing in the North Sea.
With the Grand Voyage: Pole-to-Pole and Grand World Voyage both departing in January 2025, this will be the first time that Holland America Line is offering two Grand Voyages of more than 120 days simultaneously. The Grand Voyage: Pole-to-Pole aboard Volendam enables cruisers to visit five continents on a journey that travels south-to-north, while the Grand World Voyage aboard Zuiderdam covers six continents on an east-to-west route, each conveniently sailing roundtrip from a U.S. homeport.
 "This will be a truly historic pair of voyages," Antorcha told guests. "Our Grand World Voyage travels east to west and our other Grands focus on one region, so designing this first-of-its-kind route that explores south to north roundtrip from the U.S. is an incredible way to allow our guests two different choices to travel across the world."
"Detailed planning went into this voyage to ensure we're visiting destinations when the weather is favorable, and we included locations that are sought after like the Amazon River, Greenland and Iceland, in addition to Antarctica and the Arctic," said Paul Grigsby, vice president for deployment and itinerary planning for Holland America Line. "We've created two voyages that linger in ports for memorable moments and several overnight stays. We even timed it so the two voyages will meet-up to share an overnight experience in Barcelona."
Starting today (April 20), travelers interested in either the 2025 Grand Voyage: Pole-to-Pole or 2025 Grand World Voyage can call Holland America Line's World Cruise Reservations Desk or a travel advisor to make a deposited Future Cruise Request. Guests with a deposited Future Cruise Request will get priority booking confirmation prior to the two voyages officially opening to the public May 24, 2023.
2025 Grand Voyage: Pole-to-Pole Highlights — Volendam
• 133 days. Departing Jan. 25, 2025, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.
• Follows a south-north-south route through the Panama Canal, down along the west coast of South America to Antarctica, then up along Argentina and Brazil to the heart of the Amazon River. The ship then crosses the Atlantic Ocean to Africa, sails north to Europe and up to the North Cape before heading west across the northern Atlantic Ocean via Iceland and Greenland, and finally down the eastern shores of North America.
• Pole to Pole: Down south Volendam spends four days of scenic cruising in Antarctica and up north the ship crosses the Arctic Circle to the North Cape.
• 68 total ports across five continents and 28 countries.
• 8 overnight calls: Fuerte Amador, Panama; Callao (Lima), Peru; Buenos, Aires, Argentina; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Barcelona, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; and Reykjavik, Iceland.
• Memorable Moments: Panama Canal transit, Cape Horn, Antarctica, Falkland Islands, exploring the Amazon River, Strait of Gibraltar, Norwegian fjords, North Cape, Iceland and Greenland.
2025 Grand World Voyage Highlights — Zuiderdam
• 124 days. Departing Jan. 4, 2025, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.
• Transits the Panama Canal and makes way to Easter Island before crossing the South Pacific to Australia. Explores the Great Barrier Reef en route to Indonesia and Sri Lanka, then sails south to Cape Town, South • Africa, by way of the Seychelles, back up along the eastern coast of Africa, through the Suez Canal to Portugal before crossing the Atlantic Ocean.
• 46 total ports in 32 countries across six continents.
• 9 overnight calls: Callao (two nights); Easter Island; Papeete, Tahiti; Sydney, Australia; Singapore; Cape Town; Mombasa, Kenya; Safaga, Egypt; and Barcelona.
• 7 late-night departures: Manta, Ecuador; Seychelles; Cape Town and Durban, South Africa; Aqaba, Jordan; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Gibraltar, U.K.
• Memorable Moments: Panama Canal transit, two nights at Callao allowing time to visit Machu Picchu, Easter Island, scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef, two full days in Cape Town, the opportunity to visit Petra from Jordan and experience Luxor from Safaga.
Grand Rendezvous in Barcelona
vOn April 24, 2025, Volendam and Zuiderdam will meet in Barcelona, Spain, for a joint overnight call, bringing the two Grand Voyages together for a celebration. Special festivities involving both ships will mark the occasion of the perfectly planned dual visit.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.28 |
- 4.82% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
62.41 |
- 1.19% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
13.05 |
+ 0.77% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
From the late 1800's until the Queen Mary entered service in 1936 the names of almost all of Cunard's fleet ended in a distinctive manner. How did they end and what was the significance of the ending?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which famous liner is credited with starting the Art Deco movement at sea and what year did she enter service?
Answer - The liner which started it all was Transat's Ile-de-France of 1927......and what a beauty she was!!!!!
courtesy of Dirk Van Heiningen
Cruise News - April 17, 2023
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Queen Anne Crowned with Iconic Red and Black Cunard Funnel
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Queen Anne received her crowning glory on Friday, April 14, as Cunard's iconic red and black funnel was secured onto the luxury cruise line's newest ship.
This significant construction milestone, known as the 'funnel lift,' took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, and takes the remarkable ship one step closer to her maiden voyage in May 2024. It is an important shipbuilding moment that marks the installation of one of the ship's most recognizable features.
 This significant construction milestone, the 'funnel lift,' makes Queen Anne one step closer to her launch in May 2024.
Queen Anne will be the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag, completing an impressive quartet alongside flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth – the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four Queens at sea.
Cunard's distinctive red and black funnels have adorned its ships for more than 150 years, becoming synonymous with the company's rich seafaring heritage and reputation for luxury ocean travel.
Their design is the brainchild of Robert Napier, the shipyard owner who built some of Cunard's earliest ships. The striking color scheme endures to this day, making Cunard ships instantly identifiable in ports across the world.
The design concepts for Queen Anne have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer travellers several breathtaking moments, including the largest curated art collection at sea.
The ship will also offer a range of uniquely Cunard experiences for guests, including five-star dining options with White Star Service, luxurious spa facilities, and new entertainment venues.
What's more, Queen Anne will take guests to some of the world's most enticing locations during her maiden season, from the cultural gems of the Mediterranean to the mystical landscapes of the Norwegian fjords.
"Cunard's signature red and black funnel is a part of our heritage, and we are thrilled to see it installed on our newest ship," said Matt Gleaves, VP Commercial, Cunard, North America. "The funnel lift is a significant milestone in the building process, and we are now one step closer to welcoming Queen Anne into service."
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Carnival Cruise Line Introduces Carnival Venezia’s Leadership Team
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Carnival Cruise Line today announced the appointment of the senior officers and lead entertainment team members for the newest addition to the cruise line’s fleet, Carnival Venezia.
Captain Claudio Cupisti, Chief Engineer Cesare Boldrini and Hotel Director Karl Hallberg are the ship’s senior officers. Entertainment Director Milena Krivokapic and Cruise Director Marques “MarQ” Matthias will ensure all of the Carnival fun is delivered on board the fleet’s 25th ship.
 “As we continue to grow our operations, it’s key for us to build strong teams who can ensure the success of our new ships and their crew members. We’re fortunate to have some of the most experienced mariners in the cruise industry coming together to make Carnival Venezia feel right at home, for our guests, as part of the Carnival fleet,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Meet Carnival Venezia’s Leaders
Senior Officers
Captain Claudio Cupisti: Originally from Viareggio, Italy, Cupisti began working for Carnival in 1989 and brings 34 years of Carnival experience to the helm of Carnival Venezia. Capt. Cupisti has worked on 20 Carnival ships over the years, including Carnival Breeze, Carnival Elation, Carnival Splendor, Carnival Valor and many more.
Chief Engineer Cesare Boldrini: Starting with Carnival as an engine cadet in 1995, Boldrini quickly moved his way up through several promotions and has led several engineering teams as a chief engineer since 2011. He is originally from La Spezia, Italy. Boldrini has worked on several ships over the years, including Carnival Elation, Carnival Dream, Carnival Legend and Carnival Vista.
Hotel Director Karl Hallberg: Hailing from Sweden, Hallberg has served as the hotel director on 10 Carnival ships since he first started with the cruise line six years ago. Some of the ships where Hallberg has served as hotel director include Carnival Valor, Carnival Magic, Carnival Elation, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Liberty.
Entertainment Leaders
Entertainment Director Milena Krivokapic: Her love for cruising began at a young age as Krivokapic watched ships docking in her hometown in Montenegro in the Mediterranean. In 2015, she began her career with Carnival in the photo department as a photo host and installed digital galleries across the fleet before embarking with Carnival Entertainment as a content manager in 2018. Krivokapic has been a part of the Carnival Vista team and most recently lead the Entertainment team on board Carnival Horizon.
Cruise Director Marques “MarQ” Matthias: After taking his first cruise in 2015, Matthias fell in love with Carnival Cruise Line and joined the Fun Squad later that year and was part of the inaugural team on Carnival Vista. In 2016, he stepped into the cruise director role and has been leading the fun on several ships across the fleet ever since. Matthias has also worked on Carnival Dream, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Breeze.
Carnival Venezia will be the first ship to showcase Carnival Fun Italian Style, which combines the ship’s Italian theming with Carnival’s signature fun. Built in 2019, Carnival Venezia accommodates more than 5,000 guests and is set to begin year-round cruising from New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal on June 15, 2023 after its Transatlantic crossing during a 15-day Carnival Journeys cruise that begins in Barcelona, Spain on May 29, 2023.
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111th Anniversary of Titanic Sinking
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Last Friday was the 111th anniversary of the sinking of the ocean liner Titanic. The following is a brief overview of the famous ship's brief and tragic life.
The story of RMS Titanic begins at a London dinner party in 1907 attended by White Star Line Chairman, J. Bruce Ismay and Lord Pirrie, a partner at shipbuilder Harland and Wolff. Following a discussion of how they might work together to respond to the increasing competition on the North Atlantic sea route, Ismay and Lord Pirrie agreed that Harland and Wolff would build three super liners, Olympic, Titanic and Gigantic (her name was later changed to Britannic).
 These three sisters would provide unmatched luxury and safety for transatlantic passengers. While the ships would be fast, they were never intended to challenge for the record Atlantic crossing. At over 45,000 tons, they would be the largest passenger liners ever built. Titanic would be over 883 feet long and could carry over 2,600 passengers.
Passenger accommodations consisted of the following:
First class - 416 rooms, 928 berths, 106 sofas and 554 seats in the saloon
Second class - 162 rooms, 510 berths and sofas and 402 seats in the saloon
Third class - 982 in rooms, 40 open berths and 473 seats in the saloon
Construction on the first of the three sisters, Olympic, began in late 1908. Work on her sister, Titanic began a year later in March of 1909. Because of the ships size, both the facilities in Belfast, where the ships were built and New York, their North American destination, had to be expanded. Titanic was launched in May of 1911 and spent the next 11 months fitting out at the Harland and Wolf shipyards. A total of three million rivets were used on her hull, and each of her anchors weighed approximately 8 tons.
Titanic's maiden voyage was originally scheduled for March 20, 1912, but in February of that year, her sister Olympic lost a propeller blade and had to return to the shipyard for emergency repair. As a consequence, resources were temporarily pulled from the Titanic project, and the ship's maiden voyage was delayed until April 10, 1912.
Titanic did not sail at full capacity on her maiden voyage. A total of 337 passengers sailed in first class, 271 in second class and 712 in third class, or steerage. Most third class passengers were emigrants from Ireland, England, France, Poland, Scandinavia, Italy and the Middle and Far East.
While many writers (and web sites) claim that the builders dubbed her "unsinkable", there is no record that White Star or her captain Edward J. Smith ever using those words to describe Titanic. It is more likely that this unfortunate, and inaccurate, label was applied by the popular press at the time and over the years it became attributed to both the captain and White Star.
The reality was that Titanic offered her passengers the latest in shipbuilding technology with a double hull and a total of 16 water-tight compartments that were designed to keep her afloat even if up to 4 of them became flooded. While she carried more than the required number of lifeboats for the time, the regulations in effect in 1912 had not been updated to deal with ships of Titanic's size and as a result, her 20 lifeboats only had space for approximately 1,200 of the 2,600 passengers she was expected to carry.
In addition to the latest technology, she also provided her passengers some of most luxurious services and accommodations available. To keep passengers occupied during the crossings she had an indoor swimming pool, a squash court, a gymnasium and even a Turkish Bath. To help passengers stay in contact with business or friends at home, she was equipped with a Marconi radio transmitter and receiver which was staffed 24 hours a day. The facilities in the first class staterooms were unmatched at sea and even rivaled many of the finest shore side accommodations. The quality and variety of food on board was exquisite and the level of service was superb.
vIn addition to the formal dining room, Titanic also offered her first class passengers more personal service in the Verandah restaurant where they could order from a special a-la-carte menu. Much like transatlantic crossings today, during days at sea Titanic passengers could enjoy music, stroll along an enclosed promenade, or relax in a deck chair with a book selected from an extensive ship's library.
Accommodations for second class and steerage passengers, while nowhere near the luxury of first class, were nonetheless superior to many of the top accommodations found on other ships.
This new level of luxury and service attracted the elite of British and American society and as a result, Titanic sailed on her maiden voyage with a passenger list that included an unmatched list of celebrities. She also attracted a large number of steerage passengers who were drawn by her size and reputation as a safe ship. While Titanic sported 4 funnels, only three of them were functional - the fourth funnel was added for cosmetic and marketing purposes.
She left Southampton at noon on Wednesday April 10th and proceeded across the English channel to Cherbourg, France where she stopped briefly to pick up additional passengers. Her departure from Southampton was not without incident as Titanic nearly collided with a steamer after the suction of her three propellers snapped the steamer New York's lines and drew her toward Titanic. Captain Smith avoided the collision by cutting Titanic's engines and using the port propeller's wash to keep the ships apart.
In Cherbourg, events went more smoothly and after picking up passengers from tenders, Titanic proceeded northwest to Queenstown, Ireland to pick up her final group of New York-bound passengers. She also dropped off a few very lucky Queenstown-bound passengers. On the evening of April 11th, she left Queenstown and headed out into the Atlantic.
As she headed east, she took the southern track which followed the arc of a great circle from Fastnet rock to the Nantucket Shoals Lightship. This was considered the safest route to avoid the dangers of thick pack ice and large icebergs typically found in more northerly waters at that time of year.
As Captain Smith gradually increased her speed to 22 knots, the experienced passengers on board began to settle into the normal routines of a crossing - getting to know their fellow passengers, exploring the ship, and dressing for diner. Weather was clear and relatively warm, since the winter of 1912 had been uncharacteristically mild. Unfortunately for Titanic, this mild winter had caused an unusually large amount of ice to break away and drift south into the shipping lanes.
With nice weather and smooth seas, passengers in all classes enjoyed four pleasant days at sea. On Sunday, April 14th, the weather began to change and the temperature began to fall. Titanic received at lest five different warnings of ice ahead, but since they had not spotted any ice yet, Captain Smith saw little reason to reduce Titanic's speed.
Later that evening, the wireless operator received a sixth ice warning, but since he was an employee of Marconi - not White Star - and his primary job was to send passenger's messages to shore rather than relay messages to the bridge, this final warning was put aside until thing settled down in the wireless room.
Outside the temperature continued to drop but the moonless, star-filled sky remained clear. At 11:40, lookout Fredrick Fleet spotted an iceberg dead ahead. He rang the bridge and First Officer Murdoch responded by ordering Titanic turned hard to port and the engines full astern. As a result, Titanic began a slow turn away from the iceberg. Unfortunately, she was too close and moving too fast, and her starboard side brushed against the berg.
Surprisingly the impact against the iceberg was barely felt by most passengers with many sleeping through the entire incident. A number of the passengers awake at the time thought Titanic had just barely touched the iceberg or missed it completely. Very few believed the ship had been seriously damaged and some even played football with pieces of ice that had fallen from the berg to the ships foredeck.
Contrary to most reports at the time (and for the next 72 years), Titanic did not suffer a "huge gash" but rather an extended separation of her hull plates. The result was a very small, but very long opening to the sea that doomed the ship.
Soon after the collision, Captain Smith summoned the Titanic's builder, Thomas Andrews to accompany him on a tour of the damage. After visiting the forward section of the ship, Andrews informed Captain Smith that the damage was fatal and that the ship would probably sink within two hours. Ironically, had the lookouts not seen the iceberg and Titanic rammed the berg head-on, the damage would have been limited to her bow compartments and she likely would have made it safely to land.
Just after midnight the crew was instructed to begin waking passengers and advised them to dress warmly, put on their life jackets and report to their lifeboat stations. Since the lifeboats could only accommodate about 1,100 passengers, it was decided that women and children would be put into the boats first.
Unfortunately, due to a variety of reasons including, language, location and social class, passengers in second class and steerage did not arrive at their boat stations until much later, after many of the lifeboats had already left. As a consequence, a greater percentage of these passengers perished.
All of the boats were launched by 2:00 am. and the remaining passengers began moving toward the gradually rising stern. As the bow dropped deeper into the cold water the ship's band continued to play a variety of popular music - although contrary to popular perception it is unlikely they ever played the hymn "Nearer my God to thee"
By 2:10 am, the angle of the deck was so steep that the band could no longer stand to play and they probably joined the growing crowd struggling to climb up the deck. Finally, at 2:15 the weight of the bow section became so heavy that the hull actually fractured and the stern section of the ship separated.
As the water-filled bow plunged toward the bottom, the mostly empty stern, righted itself temporarily and then quickly filled with water and joined the bow on a two and a half mile plunge to the cold Atlantic floor. Of the 2,400 passengers that left for New York on Titanic, only 705 had made it into lifeboats. The remaining 1,502 passengers perished - with many left struggling in the near freezing water.
According to the formal British inquiry, the breakdown of survivors was as follows:
First class: 203 (62%) saved, 122 (38%) lost
Second class 118 (41%) saved, 167 (59%) lost
Steerage class 178 (25%) saved, 528 (75%) lost
Crew 212 (24%) saved, 673 (76%) lost
Just before 4:00 am on the morning of April 15th, the survivors saw a faint light on the horizon. Soon thereafter, they saw rockets in the sky fired by the Cunard liner Carpathia. She was the first of the rescue vessels to reach Titanic's last reported position and she had raced heroically through the night dodging icebergs and the surrounding ice fields in a desperate attempt to reach the stricken liner.
Carpathia began picking up survivors as dawn broke and by mid morning it was over. By 8:30 am all of the surviving passengers and the Titanic's lifeboats, all that remained of the largest ship afloat, were aboard and she headed for New York. She arrived there on the evening April 18th and was mobbed by hopeful families and a waiting press.
Today Titanic rests on the bottom of the North Atlantic 2 1/2 miles down at approximately - latitude 41o 46'N, longitude 50o 14'W. The wreck was located 73 years after she went down, by Dr. Robert Ballard of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. It was Dr. Ballard who was able to confirm the previous reports that the ship had broken in two before she sank.
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Sun Princess: Princess Cruises Biggest Ship Will Sail Caribbean Itineraries from Port Everglades Starting Late 2024
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Princess Cruises' largest ship ever - Sun Princess – will make her U.S. debut in October 2024 providing the ultimate vacations to favorite Caribbean destinations on seven- and 14-day itineraries out of Ft Lauderdale, Fla. The ship is the first in the line's new Sphere class, and will homeport at Port Everglades for the winter, following a season of Mediterranean and Europe cruises when she launches in February 2024.
 Sun Princess Caribbean voyages will offer the perfect balance between incredible Caribbean islands, and tranquil days at sea for guests to enjoy all that Sun Princess has to offer, including captivating entertainment in state-of-the art venues, spacious relaxation areas offering stunning views, and the line's largest-ever casino. Highlights of the Sun Princess Caribbean season, on sale April 19, 2023, include:
• 5-day Caribbean Getaway kicks off the Caribbean season with visits to Amber Cove and Grand Turk.
• 7-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas including a late night in San Juan and a visit to our private island resort Princess Cays
• 7-day Eastern Caribbean with Bahamas visiting Amber Cove, Grand Turk and a visit to our private island resort Princess Cays
• 7-day Western Caribbean with Mexico including stops in Cozumel, Belize City and Roatan
Combine the 7-day Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean for the ultimate 14-day Caribbean East/West Adventurer.
"We are thrilled about the expansion of the Princess fleet and know that homeporting Sun Princess in Ft. Lauderdale offers a convenient option for guests to explore the most elevated experience ever from the Love Boat," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "The warmth, pristine beauty, and crystal-clear waters found throughout the Caribbean form an idyllic backdrop for our iconic new ship and create the perfect setting for Princess guests to enjoy the stunning views and playful adventure that are magnified on this beautiful, iconic new ship."
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess will offer an array of exciting new dining, entertainment and activity offerings, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories.
With the most balconies on any Princess ship, guests can take in the sunshine and crystal clear waters of the Caribbean from the comfort of their cabin. The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, is the perfect place to relax and the three-story Horizons Dining Room is sure to have everyone talking.
Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion that will extend Princess' leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences typical of small ships while enjoying only the best large ship amenities.
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Three Carnival Ships Reposition for Alaska, Europe Seasons
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Carnival Cruise Line guests on two ships are beginning spectacular voyages today which will cross both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, respectively, as a third ship will begin another Carnival Journeys cruise in the coming days.
Carnival Luminosa departed Brisbane, Australia, today to embark on a sailing spanning more than three weeks to arrive in Seattle on May 4 for the upcoming start of her Alaska season. Carnival Pride is departing Tampa today on her transatlantic cruise to Europe and, this weekend, Carnival Spirit will sail from Miami to Seattle.
Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit Sailing to Seattle
 After a successful inaugural season in Brisbane, Australia, Carnival Luminosa is embarking on an incredible 23-day transpacific sailing and will visit beautiful destinations along the way, such as New Caledonia and Fiji, before crossing the International Dateline and visiting Tahiti and Hawaii, then docking at the Port of Seattle May 4 for the start of her 2023 Alaska season. Her arrival in Seattle will mark Carnival Luminosa’s first time sailing in U.S. waters since joining the fleet in November 2022.
“Guests on board Carnival Luminosa have thoroughly enjoyed all the extraordinary experiences of sailing from Australia, visiting pristine beaches and taking in the local culture. Now, our fantastic shipboard crew members have a great opportunity to share this beautiful ship with even more guests for a new series of unforgettable cruises across Alaska,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
On Sunday, Carnival Spirit will depart Miami for a 16-day cruise to Seattle. She’ll arrive just ahead of Carnival Luminosa, on May 2, 2023, to begin operating in Alaska. Along the way, guests will stop in destinations such as Santa Marta and Cartagena, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and they will also cruise through the Panama Canal.
From Seattle, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit will each sail a four-month Alaska schedule, along with their sister ship, Carnival Miracle, which departs from San Francisco. The ships will sail a total of 49 Alaskan cruises, ranging from six- to fourteen-day sailings to port favorites like Juneau, Sitka, Skagway and the scenic cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord or Endicott Arm Fjord.
After completing the upcoming Alaska season, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Spirit will operate additional Carnival Journeys sailings, with Carnival Luminosa sailing a spectacular 30-day transpacific voyage back to Brisbane, Australia. Next year, when Carnival Luminosa returns to Seattle for the 2024 Alaska season, the ship will operate one of Carnival’s longest-ever cruises. The 31-day journey will depart April 1, 2024, and visit several exotic destinations, including Guam and Hiroshima and Yokohama, Japan. For more information on Carnival Luminosa’s upcoming sailings, click here.
Carnival Spirit will conclude its deployment for Alaska season by embarking on a 16-day sailing to New Orleans, again sailing through the Panama Canal, before repositioning to her new homeport of Mobile, Ala. on Oct. 6, 2023. Next year, Carnival Spirit will return for Alaska season on a similar voyage that departs April 7, 2024, cruises through the Panama Canal and features stops in destinations such as Cartagena, Colombia and Costa Rica. For more information on Carnival Spirit’s upcoming sailings, click here.
Carnival Pride Cruises to Europe
Carnival Pride is embarking on a 13-day transatlantic sailing from Port Tampa Bay to Barcelona, Spain. During the sailing, guests will visit Ponta Delgada in the Azores, as well as Malaga and Valencia, Spain.
Before beginning her summer season in Europe, Carnival Pride will undergo refurbishments, including the addition of the stunning new Carnival livery – a red, white and blue hull design. The livery serves as an homage to the patriotic colors that also represent Carnival, which proudly sails as America’s Cruise Line.
Guests sailing Carnival Pride when she returns to service May 28, 2023 will experience further enhancements including the addition of a Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, the fifth bar in the Carnival fleet which salutes the military. Guests will also enjoy an upgraded Cloud 9 Spa and Fitness Center, with new equipment, and sporting a fresh look and feel. The 2,680-guest Carnival Pride will feature enhancements to its steakhouse, which will be rebranded as Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and span two decks. The ship will also be home to a new Carnival Adventures shop and Dreams Photography Studio.
Carnival Pride will sail a series of 15 European cruises from May 28, 2023 through Oct. 28, 2023. The upcoming season features various cruise lengths and itineraries with departures from Dover, UK; Barcelona, Spain; and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. Carnival Pride concludes its European season with a 15-day transatlantic voyage back to the U.S. that departs Oct. 28, 2023.
Next year, Carnival Legend will operate 17 European sailings. The ship’s rich program for 2024 offers a wide range of cruises that feature diverse and spectacular destinations between two transatlantic sailings – with a spring departure cruise from Baltimore, M.D. to Barcelona, Spain and a 15-day return trip in the fall from Civitavecchia to Tampa, Fla.
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Jeff Corwin to Host Alaska Nature & Adventure Voyage with Princess Cruises
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Princess Cruises' Nature & Adventure Ambassador Jeff Corwin has been to Alaska on more than 150 journeys and considers the Great Land his home away from home. Now, nature and animal enthusiasts alike have the special opportunity to cruise along with Corwin to Alaska to hear his inspiring stories and experience his compelling passion for wildlife, conservation and exploration firsthand.
 Jeff Corwin's Nature & Adventure Voyage is scheduled for September 6-13, 2023, sailing northbound on Princess' "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary from Vancouver, B.C to Anchorage (Whittier) aboard Sapphire Princess. Cruise fares and itinerary information for the September 6 voyage can be found here, starting as low as $448 per person*.
Corwin is a highly respected wildlife biologist, conservationist, animal enthusiast and recently was named Princess Cruises' Nature & Adventure Ambassador. For nearly three decades, he has been telling stories of wildlife and nature to a global audience through his many celebrated television series, including Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin on ABC, garnering multiple Emmy and top-broadcast industry awards. His Jeff Corwin's Alaska video series can be viewed on Princess You Tube Channel.
"My most favorite place to explore is Alaska because it's unmatched when it comes to adventure, animals and incredible exploration," said Princess Cruises Nature & Adventure Ambassador Jeff Corwin. "I'm beyond excited to be hosting this special cruise so I can personally share my experiences, offer insights on watching out for bald eagles, whales and bears, and meet adventure seekers like me who love new discoveries and also share in my dedication for conservation so Alaska can be enjoyed for generations to come."
Corwin will serve as onboard guide and host for this incredible cruise to Alaska, sharing his own personal stories from his 150+ trips to this state that delivers a new and unique experience with every visit. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with Corwin through special events and activities, including:
• Inspirational keynote presentations in the Princess Theater, highlighting his passion for Alaska wildlife and conservation, plus his explorations around the globe.
• Meet-and-greet photo opportunities.
• Exclusive shore excursions hosted by Corwin in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan.
• Unique dining experiences hosted by Corwin, featuring the cruise line's expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu - an industry-first, location-based seafood initiative featuring an extensive offering of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails (limited availability and additional fees apply).
Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin was broadcast on ABC for four seasons, taking viewers to worldwide destinations that Princess visits, including the Dominican Republic, Alaska, New Zealand, Iceland, Japan, French Polynesia and more. Through the success of this series, Princess debuted Ocean Treks Conservation Connections, featuring short stories of environmental management, wildlife conversation and sustainability, also hosted by Corwin.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.75 |
- 1.22% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
63.16 |
+ 1.30% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
12.95 |
- 3.00% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which famous liner is credited with starting the Art Deco movement at sea and what year did she enter service?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which Holland America ship caught fire and sank off the Alaska coast in October 1980 while on a positioning cruise from Vancouver to the Orient? Her 524 passengers and crew were evacuated safely.
Answer - PRINSENDAM was the first of a pair of cruise liners Holland America was building for the Indonesian and Alaskan markets. The second order was cancelled when HAL bought the Moore-Mac sisters for conversion into VEENDAM and VOLENDAM.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - April 10, 2023
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Holland America Line’s 150th Anniversary Celebrations Filled With Historic Events In Founding City Of Rotterdam
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From a ceremony at an historic landmark with a special gift to shipboard gala celebrations and a toast around the world, Holland America Line is getting ready to celebrate a day 150 years in the making. The premium cruise line’s sesquicentennial birthday is April 18, 2023, and on that date, Rotterdam VII will arrive at its namesake city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to revel with local dignitaries, port officials and guests. Zuiderdam will be at Amsterdam, the Netherlands, that day and host an evening gala party on board for Grand World Voyage guests.
Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha will lead the celebrations. Also scheduled to attend the events are Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam’s godmother; Ahmed Aboutaleb, mayor of Rotterdam; and descendants from two families of Holland America Line’s original founders.
“Holland America Line is a company that takes deep pride in our heritage and respects the role we played in history, so our 150th anniversary events honor our tradition while recognizing the brand we are today,” said Antorcha. “All of the festivities we have planned carry special meaning, and we’re excited to celebrate with so many individuals who have been a part of our story throughout the years, alongside our guests, team members and the people of the Netherlands.”
Upon Rotterdam’s arrival at Rotterdam April 18, the 150th Anniversary celebrations begin at Hotel New York, home to Holland America Line’s historic headquarters. The cruise line will present a commemorative 150th Anniversary bell — in the style of a traditional ship bell — to be permanently displayed at the hotel. At the event, Princess Margriet will follow Holland America Line’s ritual of blessing the bell before it is donated to Hotel New York.
In addition, an original share of the first Holland America Line stock shares will be presented to be kept as part of a special collection in the city of Rotterdam archives. At the ceremony, PostNL, the postal office of the Netherlands, also will unveil a 24-carat collectable 150th anniversary gold-foil stamp to commemorate the special milestone. Available for purchase throughout the Netherlands, only a limited edition of just 1,000 will be produced.
Following a Gala Dinner on board Rotterdam and Zuiderdam, the celebrations move to the Lido pool area with live music and a toast to the special day. Anniversary-themed parties also will be held on the nine other ships in Holland America Line’s fleet.
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Carnival Cruise Line Gets Ready for Busy Alaska Season
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Building on the success of its 2022 Alaska season, Carnival Cruise Line is gearing up to launch another three-ship deployment that will sail 49 Alaskan cruises this year. This season, Carnival is introducing new experiences to its popular array of shore excursions and preparing to welcome one of its newest additions to the fleet, Carnival Luminosa, into U.S. waters for the first time.
Carnival Miracle will kick off Carnival’s Alaska season on April 23, 2023, from Long Beach, Calif. for a 14-day journey and will then operate from her seasonal homeport of San Francisco, Calif. with 10-day cruises that feature visits to Prince Rupert, B.C., a new destination this season. In Seattle, Wash., Carnival Spirit’s first departure is set for May 2, 2023, and then Carnival Luminosa joins to complete the season’s start on May 4, 2023. Carnival will operate six-, seven- and eight-day sailings from the Port of Seattle. Destinations during these voyages include the popular ports of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as Victoria, B.C., and cruising Tracy Arm Fjord.
 Ahead of her arrival in Seattle, Carnival Luminosa will take guests on a 23-day Carnival Journeys cruise from Brisbane, Australia, where she has been homeporting since joining the fleet in November 2022. Guests sailing on Carnival Luminosa from Seattle will experience many unique features the ship brings to the Carnival fleet, such as a Cloud 9 Spa spanning two decks with one of the fleet’s most expansive thermal areas. After joining from sister-brand Costa Cruises last year, the ship underwent several enhancements. Like her sisters Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle, the ship also features a sky dome over the pool deck, allowing the area to be enjoyed no matter the weather.
“I can’t wait to welcome our guests on board our stunning Carnival Luminosa, as she joins her beautiful sisters, Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle, for this year’s Alaska season. There’s no better way to see the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Alaska than by cruise ship, and we anticipate making that happen for more than 100,000 guests this year,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “This season’s start is a good reminder that it’s not too early to plan for next year.”
Carnival has seen an extraordinary response for the upcoming season, and Alaskan sailings for next year are currently open for sale as well. In 2024, in between two spectacular transpacific cruises that feature visits to Japan and Hawaii, Carnival Luminosa will again join Carnival Spirit to homeport in Seattle, operating seven-, eight- and 14-day sailings, and Carnival Miracle will return to San Francisco, Calif., where 10- and 11-day cruises are available. The three ships will sail 53 cruises during the 2024 season, which will make it Carnival’s largest-ever Alaska deployment. To see Alaska cruises currently open for sale, visit Carnival.com.
Pack a Sense of Adventure and Be Immersed in Alaska’s Beauty
Each destination across every Alaskan itinerary offers several opportunities for guests to experience breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and deep history found on shore. From whale watching in Juneau to ziplining in Skagway, Carnival curates the best local experiences so guests can easily choose the perfect excursion. This season, Carnival is introducing two new excursions for Carnival Miracle cruises visiting Prince Rupert, B.C., which include:
Khutzeymatten Grizzly Bear Expedition: Guests will board a 72-foot catamaran designed for wildlife viewing for a full-day adventure through towering cliffs, dense forests and a thriving estuary ecosystem. They will gently glide through Canada’s only grizzly bear sanctuary, which is home to more than 50 grizzly bears, for an excellent chance at sightings.
Exchamsiks Exploration: Guests will experience the beauty of British Columbia’s temperate rainforest and bountiful rivers by jet boat as well as on foot and enjoy a meal of fresh wild local salmon cooked over a campfire and served beneath 4,000-foot cliffs.
The new excursions join a wide range of offerings guests enjoy while visiting popular Alaskan ports, including:
Juneau: Sailing on an Alaskan-built, high-speed expedition vessel, the Mendenhall Glacier and Wildlife Quest offers an incomparable opportunity to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, seals, eagles and a guided tour through the famous Mendenhall Glacier.
Skagway: The Ultimate Yukon and White Pass Railroad Adventure takes guests aboard a motor coach to marvel at the picturesque Yukon River, its adjoining chain of lakes and the rustic town of Caribou as they hear tales of the Klondike Gold Rush narrated by their guide.
Ketchikan: See – and taste – much of what makes Alaska unique at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Crab Feast and Drinks, which offers guests a chance to watch Alaskan lumberjacks compete. A sightseeing tour and a Dungeness crab dinner follows while guests enjoy the dramatic mountain, forest and coastal scenery surrounding them.
Bring More Fun to The Last Frontier and Join Special Activities for Kids and Families
Carnival cruises to Alaska feature Alaska-specific programming geared toward children and families. From the Great Alaskan Deck Party to a digital scavenger hunt that helps guests of all ages collect snapshots of the best sights along their cruise, Carnival offers something for all age groups designed to enhance connection and engagement with the momentous experience of an Alaskan sailing. Some of the fun activities and memorable learning opportunities created specifically for voyages to Alaska include:
Wildlife, Nature and Culture: Local naturalists visit Camp Ocean to give an overview of Alaskan wildlife. In Club O2 and Circle C, teens will learn how best to photograph beautiful Alaskan scenery and have their questions about native wildlife answered by experts. Additionally, kids and teens can learn to square dance and express their creative side with crafts.
Family Ice Fishing Challenge: Everyone in the family can imagine life as an ice fisher – but instead of trout, each team fishes for points in a game that’s fun for all ages.
Family Lumberjack Challenge: Guests can join a fun competition to find out who in their family might make the best lumberjack.
Each of the three ships deployed to Alaska this season carry approximately 2,200 guests and feature many guest-favorite Carnival venues, including Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and RedFrog Rum Bar. Guests will also enjoy entertainment offerings that include Playlist Productions, Piano Bar 88 and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
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Holland America Line Announces 2024-2025 West Coast Cruises
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Holland America Line has opened cruise bookings for its 2024-2025 West Coast season from San Diego, California, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Sailings from these two North American homeports allow guests to see the world from their doorstep, without international air or by taking an easy flight from Canada.
Travelers can set out from the West Coast to explore the vibrant cultures of Mexico, Hawaii's aloha spirit, the charming seaside escapes of the Pacific Coast and the famed Panama Canal on five ships across 42 cruises. Sailings are roundtrip from San Diego, roundtrip from Vancouver, or begin or end in either of the two ports.
 "Holland America Line continues to cultivate our North America homeport cruises to offer a diverse range of destinations without the need for long-haul air," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "Our West Coast departures are a rich collection of close-to-home itineraries, and by offering the ability to book back-to-back cruises in different regions our guests can check off more of their must-do travel experiences in one vacation."
From September 2024 through May 2025, guests can embark cruises ranging from a four-day voyage along the Pacific Coast to a 21-day transit of the Panama Canal. Itineraries are uniquely curated to include popular ports alongside lesser-visited locales that showcase the natural beauty, cultural diversity and rich history of each region.
This season, Holland America Line is featuring more Panama Canal Collectors' Voyages that begin with a Hawaii cruise and expand the canal transit experience to the eastern Caribbean. Many of the other cruises also can be extended into Collectors' Voyages to create the ultimate exploration with more economical fares than booking the cruises individually. Ranging from 14 to 31 days, these longer journeys combine nonrepeating, back-to-back itineraries, enabling guests to visit more than one region.
Highlights of the 2024-25 Mexico Cruise Season:
Two ships offer Mexico itineraries: Koningsdam and Zaandam.
All Mexico cruises are roundtrip from San Diego.
Seven-day "Mexican Riviera" cruises feature Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Cabo San Lucas.
The seven-day "Baja Peninsula and Sea of Cortez" itinerary visits La Paz, Loreto and Cabo San Lucas.
The 10-day "Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez" itinerary includes all five of the ports on the seven-day itineraries; the 11-day adds Manzanillo, Mexico.
Highlights of the 2024-25 Hawaii Cruise Season:
Cruises to Hawaii are aboard Koningsdam and Zaandam.
Itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego or roundtrip from Vancouver.
16-day "Circle Hawaii" roundtrip from San Diego visits Honolulu, Lahaina, Hilo and Kona, all in Hawaii, as well as Ensenada, Mexico.
17-day "Circle Hawaii" roundtrip from Vancouver visits Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight) and Kona. The 17-day roundtrip from San Diego features a one-day call at Honolulu and adds Ensenada.
18-day "Circle Hawaii" is roundtrip from San Diego and calls at Lahaina, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), Nawiliwili, Kona and Ensenada.
The overnight call at Honolulu allows guests extra time to visit Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument or enjoy an authentic luau.
Highlights of the 2024-2025 Pacific Northwest and Coast Cruise Season:
Five ships will cruise along the West Coast of the United States for the season: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Westerdam and Zaandam.
Itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego, roundtrip from Vancouver, or between Vancouver and San Diego.
"Pacific Coastal" itineraries are four and five days and sail between San Diego and Vancouver. The four-day features a call at Avalon or Santa Barbara, California, and the five-day visits San Francisco, California, with a late-night departure from the city.
"Classic California Coast" is seven days roundtrip from San Diego and calls at Avalon or Santa Barbara, plus San Francisco (overnight) and Ensenada.
"Wine Country and Pacific Northwest" is from San Diego to Vancouver. The six-day includes Avalon and San Francisco; the seven-day adds an overnight at San Francisco; Astoria, Oregon; and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
A four-day itinerary roundtrip from Vancouver departing April 22, 2025, calls at Seattle, Washington, and Victoria.
Several one-day "Pacific Northwest" getaways between Vancouver and Seattle offer a quick taste of Holland America Line.
Highlights of the 2024-2025 Panama Canal Cruise Season:
Three ships transit the Panama Canal: Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam.
Cruises sail between Vancouver, Seattle or San Diego and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Guests enjoy a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, with commentary on the open decks detailing the amazing feat of the man-made marvel.
Transits range from 14 to 21 days and include a combination of calls in Aruba, California, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama and Turks and Caicos.
Many Panama Canal cruises include a call at Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's award-winning private island in the Bahamas.
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Princess Cruises Sailing Seven Ships in Alaska in 2023
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Princess Cruises, the leading cruise line in Alaska, is readying for the start of the 2023 cruise and cruisetour season which begins April 29. Sustainable seafood and award-winning programming that immerses guests in all things Alaska are highlights again this year as Princess sails seven ships throughout The Great Land across 14 cruise itineraries and 25 land-sea vacations, including the line's newest ship Discovery Princess along with Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Majestic Princess, Grand Princess, Crown Princess and Sapphire Princess.
New for 2023 is an expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu that can be enjoyed by all guests sailing with Princess in Alaska this season, as well as a new Garden-to-Table menu for cruisetour guests staying at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. An extensive beverage program including decadent coffee and hot chocolate-based creations, themed frozen drinks, Alaska wines and flights of Alaska beer, Alaska cocktails, Bloody Marys or Mimosas are also being introduced this season.
"Welcoming guests at the start of the Alaska season is always one of the most highly anticipated events of the year because we know they are going to have one of the most memorable travel experiences," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "Each season, we're passionate about enhancing our programs to offer one of the most destination-focused programs available and for 2023, we've crafted some amazing Wild for Alaska Seafood dishes that will leave guests dreaming of coming back."
Introduced in 2022, Princess's Wild for Alaska Seafood menu is an industry-first, location-based seafood initiative featuring an extensive menu offering a rotation of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails including flights of Alaska spirits sourced from local distilleries. Distinctive Alaska seafood dishes with featured items are offered every night in all main dining rooms and highlight only the freshest seafood ingredients with multiple varieties of Alaska salmon, including King (Chinook), Sockeye and Coho, as well as wild Alaska cod (caught by hook and line only), halibut, rockfish, Dungeness crabs, wild spot prawns and razor clams.
Underscoring its role as a steward of the environment, Princess developed the new "Wild for Alaska Seafood" program in partnership with Pacific Seafood, Alaska Seafood, and Alaska Leader Seafood, all of which have an abiding commitment to environmentally responsible practices and are among the best-managed, most sustainable fisheries in the world.
This year guests can also enjoy new Alaska seafood bowls offered in World Fresh Marketplace daily, featuring the freshest salmon available. Other new offerings include Steelhead Salmon Carpaccio, King Salmon with Razor Clams and an authentic Alaskan Crab Cake.
The expanded beverage program includes a variety of offerings, giving every guest something to love:
• Keep warm with coffee and hot chocolate-based beverages such as the "Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate," "Gingerbread Breakfast," "White Glacier and more."
• Learn about Alaska beers through hosted tastings, or order beer flights at any point during the cruise.
• Indulge in themed frozen drinks such as the "Ketchikan Strawberry Shortcake," "Alaskan Polar Bear" and "Juneau Goldbelt Tram."
• Enjoy flights of Alaska cocktails, including a sampling of beverages made from spirits produced in Alaska.
• Sample various Mimosas or Bloody Marys with tasting flights and on certain days, enjoy a Bloody Mary bar near the main pool.
• Take part in the Alaska Wine Experience that offers the chance to try a diverse selection of wines paired with Alaska salmon.
Guests can enjoy cruises from seven to 11 days, departing from San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, B.C. and Anchorage (Whittier) as well as cruisetours which take guests 500 miles into the heart of Alaska – where they seamlessly transfer from ship, to train to Denali, all in one day.
These highly sought-out cruisetours give guests an opportunity to see more of Alaska by combining an unforgettable cruise (most going to Glacier Bay National Park) with land tour options to visit the extraordinary Denali National Park and Princess' five signature Wilderness Lodges.
Additional distinctions of the Princess Cruises Alaska experience include:
• Every cruise features at least one glacier-viewing experience – Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier or Tracy Arm Fjord. Princess takes more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line.
• Cruises feature the marquee ports of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway with a "More Ashore" late-night call in Juneau on all northbound Voyage of the Glaciers and seven-day Inside Passage voyages.
• From a lumberjack show, dog sledding on a glacier, the historic White Pass Scenic Railway, flightseeing adventures and plenty of tours with wildlife viewing – whales, bears and more – guests can choose from more than 150 shore excursions. Exclusive to Princess, Cook My Catch offers guests the chance to reel in a fish during a fishing excursion and have chefs cook it for their dinner that night.
• Only Princess offers custom-built, exclusive wilderness lodges on the doorsteps of legendary national parks. Back by popular demand, the 17-night Princess Connoisseur Cruisetour features 10 nights on land that includes two nights at each of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges and visits five national parks.
• NEW for 2023, guests staying at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge can enjoy the Garden-to-Table offerings. Guests are welcomed to walk through the large garden on property and admire the Alaska grown vegetables and flowers that flourish with the longer summer days filled with sunshine, then enjoy the chefs' menu creations using the fresh produce harvested throughout the season.
• The cruise line's Direct-to-the Wilderness rail service takes guests from the ship through the heart of Alaska with breathtaking scenery to the Denali-based wilderness lodges for more time to explore the interior of this vast state.
• Every cruisetour itinerary includes Denali National Park, a picturesque six million acres, home to North America's tallest peak.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to Offer Starlink High-speed Internet on Board Fleet
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 Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.today announced its plan to improve connectivity for guests and crew at sea by offering SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on its ships. Using advanced low earth orbit satellites, Starlink delivers industry leading broadband internet connectivity which will improve the capacity, speed and reliability of internet on board. The Company is currently testing Starlink, beginning with Norwegian Breakaway, with the intent to rollout this game-changing technology across its entire world class fleet in a phased manner.
We are thrilled to offer Starlink on board our ships to improve internet connectivity at sea. This initiative is a testament to our continuous quest to find new and innovative ways to enhance the experience for both guests and crew while sailing on our award-winning brands. Ensuring that this technology meets our high standards of excellence for our guests is incredibly important to us, which is why we are introducing this cutting-edge technology across our fleet in a phased manner. Once deployed, guests and crew will have a faster and more reliable method to stay connected with friends and family including by sharing in real-time the incredible memories they create while at sea.
If trials are successful, the Company is targeting to equip 7 additional vessels with Starlink by year-end, including all three of the Company’s exciting new additions this year, Oceania Cruises’ Vista, Norwegian Viva and Regent’s Seven Seas Grandeur. A comprehensive rollout plan is under development and details regarding timeline and availability on specific ships will be communicated once finalized. In addition to enhancing the guest and crew experience, the extra bandwidth will also allow for more flexibility for onboard services and improve the ship-to-shore connection for operational needs.
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Celebrity Cruises Announces Executive Changes
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Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) announced that after an illustrious tenure at the helm of Celebrity Cruises, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will transition to Vice Chair, External Affairs for Royal Caribbean Group, effective May 1. In her new role, Lutoff-Perlo will continue reporting to Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty. Laura Hodges Bethge, currently executive vice president, shared services operations, will become the next brand president of Celebrity Cruises.
“Lisa has been instrumental in transforming the Celebrity Cruises brand to what it is today,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “From helping us introduce the revolutionary Edge Series of ships to advancing the role of women in maritime careers, Lisa has had an incredible career during her time leading Celebrity Cruises, and multiple parts of our Royal Caribbean International brand. I have had the pleasure of working with Lisa for almost 18 years, and I know her expertise will be invaluable as she transitions to serve as my Vice Chair, External Affairs.”
 “It has always been difficult for me to imagine leaving the incredible Celebrity brand, but the time is right for me to start an exciting new chapter and turn the helm over to a new leader,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. “It has been my great honor to lead this brand and work alongside the phenomenal Celebrity shoreside team and crew. Together, our accomplishments have been extraordinary. I’m excited to now work closely with Jason on broader initiatives as we sail towards an even brighter future.”
Lutoff-Perlo’s remarkable career with Royal Caribbean Group began in 1985 with her first role as a district sales manager and she went on to trailblaze a legacy of firsts. Along the way, she also led Celebrity Cruises to record growth, revenue, and profit, and she championed the brand’s evolution into the incredible cruise line it is today. Under her leadership, Celebrity Cruises welcomed four new award-winning ships, and underwent the Celebrity Revolution, one of the largest fleet revitalization projects in the industry.
In 2005, Lutoff-Perlo became Celebrity’s first female senior vice president of hotel operations. In 2012, she was named executive vice president of operations for Royal Caribbean International, the first woman in the industry to oversee both hotel and marine operations. Two short years later, she was the first woman appointed to president and CEO of one of Royal Caribbean Group’s brands.
“I would also like to congratulate Laura for her appointment as the next brand president of Celebrity Cruises,” Liberty added. “With her operational experience, business acumen and deep understanding of our company and the cruise industry, I know Laura is the right person to lead Celebrity Cruises to its next phases of growth.”
Most recently serving as executive vice president, shared services operations, Laura Hodges Bethge has been with the company more than 23 years and has held senior positions in many different areas including product development, hotel and marine operations, sales, marketing, product innovation, market development and investor relations.
Hodges Bethge is an exemplary leader with a long history of success at the company. Previously, she was senior vice president of product development for Royal Caribbean International, and led the teams conceptualizing their groundbreaking ships, private island destinations, and new experiences introduced throughout the award-winning fleet, including the first island in Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Island Collection – Perfect Day at CocoCay.
“Now 15 ships strong, this is an exciting time for Celebrity Cruises,” said Laura Hodges Bethge. “This year alone, we’ll be welcoming Celebrity Ascent, and reaching key construction milestones in the yet-to-be-named fifth ship in the revolutionary Edge Series. I look forward to building on the incredible achievements of Lisa and this world class team, as we continue to break boundaries and chart new courses in the industry.”
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.87 |
- 1.00% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
62.35 |
- 2.96% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
13.35 |
+ 0.00% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which Holland America ship caught fire and sank off the Alaska coast in October 1980 while on a positioning cruise from Vancouver to the Orient? Her 524 passengers and crew were evacuated safely.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which former Atlantic liner ended her long career being subjected to partial flooding and numerous explosions as she served as a floating prop in the 1959 MGM film The Last Voyage?
Answer - PRINSENDAM was the first of a pair of cruise liners Holland America was building for the Indonesian and Alaskan markets. The second order was cancelled when HAL bought the Moore-Mac sisters for conversion into VEENDAM and VOLENDAM.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - April 3, 2023
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HAL Set to Explore South America, Antarctica and the Amazon River in 2024-2025
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From the colossal glaciers of Antarctica to the lush jungles of Brazil, Holland America Line's 2024-2025 South America season explores the diverse landscapes of the continent on destination-rich itineraries. From November 2024 through March 2025, Oosterdam offers cruises ranging from 14 to 22 days that visit exotic ports and offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences like visiting the Inca ruins of Macchu Pichu, rounding Cape Horn and sailing south to the world's most remote continent.
 In February 2025, Zaandam sails the ultimate Amazon adventure with a 27-day itinerary roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, that navigates the longest river in the world. The ship will traverse the two-toned meeting of the waters and journey along the Amazon River. This cruise adds a legendary voyage to Holland America Line's roster of itineraries that allow travelers to explore the world with a short drive or flight to departure.
"Holland America Line's South America cruises continue to attract travelers looking for those memorable experiences like the Amazon, Macchu Pichu and Antarctica, and South America delivers not only cultural immersion but also some of the most spectacular scenery in the world," said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer, Holland America Line. "Our perfectly sized ships make it possible to explore these remote locations and visit smaller ports that give our guests a unique perspective of the continent."
Highlights of the South America and Antarctica Season:
14-day "South America Passage" itineraries cruise between San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, and Buenos Aires, Argentina:
• Guests enjoy an overnight visit to Buenos Aires at the beginning or end of each cruise, giving extra time to take in a tango show and experience the nightlife of one of South America's most vibrant cities.
• Ports include Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabuco and Punta Arenas, Chile; Ushuaia, Argentina; Stanley, Falkland Islands; and Montevideo, Uruguay.
• Stunning scenic cruising includes the Chilean Fjords, Strait of Magellan, Beagle and Cockburn Channels, Glacier Alley and rounding Cape Horn.
• Departures: Dec. 1, 2024, and Feb. 19 and March 5, 2025.
17-Day "Panama Canal and Inca Discovery" cruises sail between Fort Lauderdale and San Antonio (Santiago):
• Two nights at Callao (Lima), Peru, allow extra time for guests to take an overland tour to Macchu Pichu.
• Calls in Grand Cayman, Panama, Ecuador, Peru and Chile, with an overnight at Fuerte Amador, Panama.
• A journey between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans with a transit through the lakes and locks of the famed Panama Canal.
• Departures: Nov. 14, 2024, and March 19, 2025.
22-Day "South America and Antarctica" itineraries cruise between San Antonio (Santiago) and Buenos Aires:
• An overnight visit to Buenos Aires at the beginning or end of each cruise.
• Calls in Uruguay, Argentina, Falkland Islands and Chile.
• Four memorable days exploring the vistas of Antarctica, guided by a naturalist who comes on board to point out penguin colonies and whale pods.
• Scenic cruising includes the Chilean fjords, Drake Passage, Beagle Channel and Glacier Alley.
• Departures: Dec. 15, 2024 (holiday cruise), and Jan. 6 and 28, 2025.
Highlights of the Amazon Explorer Cruise:
27 days, departing Feb. 8, 2025, aboard Zaandam:
• Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, making this legendary cruise to the Amazon possible with a convenient flight or short drive to the departing homeport.
• 12 total ports in the Caribbean and Brazil, as well as French Guiana.
• Caribbean islands include St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Dominica and Tortola.
• 5 ports throughout Brazil, including an overnight at Manaus at the heart of the Amazon.
• Several days cruising along the Amazon River with the famed "meeting of the waters" where the deep, dark Rio Nefro flows side by side with the sandy waters of the Amazon's Rio Solimões.
• Two equator crossings where guests and team members who've never crossed go from pollywog to shellback.
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Miami's Newest Megaship--MSC World America--to Usher in a New World of Cruising
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A new world of cruising is coming to Miami and is now available for booking. The LNG-powered ship will be the second in the cruise line's innovative World Class when she launches in April 2025, offering sustainable cruising with new, immersive and unique experiences at sea.
MSC World America will sail from MSC Cruises' brand new, state-of-the-art terminal at PortMiami, which is set to be the largest cruise terminal in North America once completed. She will exclusively sail 7-night Caribbean itineraries during her inaugural season, giving guests the opportunity to visit some of the most sought-after destinations in the world on a ship designed for worldly and curious travelers.
 The ship's itineraries are designed to maximize time available for guests to fully discover the various ports of call. All sailings will include visits to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC Cruises' stunning private destination in The Bahamas.
Available Itineraries:
Eastern Caribbean: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, The Bahamas
Western Caribbean: Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, The Bahamas
MSC World America will be optimized for North American cruising with new restaurants, bars, public spaces and experiences designed to create a truly memorable cruise vacation. On board, different cultures will come together from around the world as elegant European design meets American comfort.
One of the revolutionary new experiences on board MSC World America will be The Harbor—a brand new outdoor destination designed for kids and families to play and relax together. The new area on deck 20 places all the components of the perfect family experience at sea in one convenient location. The Harbor combines a water park, interactive water features, new thrills, and comfortable areas to relax with delicious food and cool beverages.
The Harbor offers some of the best views of the ocean, alongside adventures like the intricate High Trail course and zip line, sensory play areas for little ones, and the Harbor Lighthouse—a thematic playground kids are sure to love. The Harbor will feature fun food trucks at sea, serving up convenient snacks and refreshments within steps of five new spaces offering plenty of well-shaded seating and stunning sea views.
Ruben Rodriguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said, "MSC World America will be another major milestone in our North American growth story and a fantastic new experience for our guests, whether they're local or visiting from different parts of the world. Our goal with this ship is to go beyond her long list of features with thoughtful touches that make each guest's cruise experience unique and memorable. On board, they'll find the elegant European design that's a hallmark of our entire fleet, mixed with classic American elements and hospitality. We can't wait to have our guests experience our next U.S. flagship."
About MSC World America
MSC World America will create an eye-catching silhouette against the Miami skyline with her signature plumb bow rising vertically from the waterline and Y-shaped aft that opens onto the impressive outdoor World Promenade. The new World Class ship will span 22 decks, measure more than 150 feet wide, feature 2,626 cabins, contain more than 420,000 square feet of public space, and offer top-of-the-line features and facilities, including:
• A re-imagined outdoor World Promenade, where unique dining, lounging and entertainment options are paired with stunning ocean views and unmatched LED light shows
• The indoor World Galleria—lined with bars, restaurants, shops and boutiques—topped with a state-of-the-art LED and kinetic light ceiling
• 13 restaurants:
Six specialty restaurants, featuring two NEW concepts alongside guest favorites like Butcher's Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki, and Hola! Tacos and Cantina
Four main restaurants serving globally inspired cuisine and familiar American favorites
Two buffets offering ample choices for casual dining
Luna Park Pizza & Burger: Complimentary casual fast-food spot located next to Luna Park in the World Galleria offering quick snacks around the clock
• 20 bars and lounges, including:
NEW! Sports Bar: New for MSC World America, this warm and inviting venue combines sports memorabilia, technology, and entertainment in a space where guests of all ages will feel welcome. Guests can grab a beer or soft drink and watch the game on one of the many screens while enjoying popular bar food like wings and sliders. Games like darts and foosball will be available, too.
NEW! Comedy Club: New for MSC Cruises, the Comedy Club is a place where guests can come to kick back, let loose, and take life a little less seriously. Evenings begin with an interactive and comical dueling pianos experience that friends of all ages can enjoy. The laughter will continue with sets from amazing comedians that will rival some of the best shows in NYC & Chicago.
The Gin Project: Offering an extensive choice of craft gins with classic cocktails expertly prepared by gin-tenders.
Elixir - Mixology Bar: Expert mixologists creating handcrafted concoctions, featuring an outdoor terrace to enjoy pre- and post-meal cocktails while enjoying spectacular ocean views.
Masters of the Sea: MSC Cruises' classic British pub comes complete with a full-scale micro-brewery making MSC Signature beers on board.
Coffee Emporium: A sleek and modern coffee house that is any coffee connoisseur's dream, offering some of the world's best coffee beans and a selection of brewing and serving styles including French, Italian, Turkish and Moroccan.
Jean-Phillipe Chocolate shop and Café: Offering custom chocolates, coffee and other treats in a relaxed café atmosphere.
More NEW concepts on the way!
• A striking 11-deck-high dry slide made of stainless steel, giving guests a fun way to reach the lower decks in style.
• Six pools and 14 hot tubs, including a spacious indoor pool with retractable roof and twin adults-only Zen pools at the aft of the ship.
• Expansive water park with water slides that include a VR experience.
• Kids Clubs featuring dedicated facilities for age groups ranging from infants to 17 years old.
• Three entertainment venues with all-new live entertainment and theater shows.
• Stylish and comfortable staterooms and suites, including Infinite Ocean View cabins, balconies that overlook the outdoor World Promenade and connecting family staterooms.
• The MSC Yacht Club, featuring spacious suites, dedicated lounge and restaurant, private pool and sun deck facilities, and 24-hour concierge and butler service as well as spacious, luxurious suites.
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Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board to Bring Magical Cruise Vacations to Southeast Asia
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Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board today announced cruise vacations to Southeast Asia for the first time, revealed by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Singapore's Minister for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, S. Iswaran.
Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board announced cruise vacations to Southeast Asia for the first time, with plans to homeport a brand-new Disney cruise ship exclusively in Singapore for at least five years beginning in 2025. The ship will feature innovative Disney experiences along with the dazzling entertainment, world-class dining and legendary guest service that set Disney Cruise Line apart. (Disney)
Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board announced magical cruise vacations to Southeast Asia for the first time, with plans to homeport a brand-new Disney cruise ship exclusively in Singapore for at least five years beginning in 2025. The ship will feature innovative Disney experiences along with the dazzling entertainment, world-class dining and legendary guest service that set Disney Cruise Line apart. (Disney)
Under a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding, Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board agreed to collaborate to homeport a brand-new Disney cruise ship exclusively in Singapore for at least five years beginning in 2025. More details about the maiden voyage, itineraries and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.
 "This is a very exciting year for The Walt Disney Company — 2023 marks our 100th anniversary," D'Amaro said. "As part of this, Disney Cruise Line is currently undergoing an ambitious expansion with new ships and new destinations around the world. We are incredibly excited to make Singapore the home port to our seventh-launched ship, which will sail from here year-round starting in 2025."
"We look forward to welcoming the magic of Disney Cruise Line to Singapore in 2025," said Keith Tan, Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board (STB). "This is an important milestone for STB and reflects Disney Cruise Line's strong confidence in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The new Disney cruise ship will be an attraction itself and is expected to boost the tourism sector in Singapore for many years to come."
Cruising in Singapore and Southeast Asia
Singapore's strategic location, world-class air connectivity and port infrastructure make it a thriving cruise hub in Southeast Asia, a diverse region that is home to over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The addition of a Disney Cruise Line ship in Singapore has the potential to add millions of local and foreign cruise passengers across the five-year period, including fly-cruise passengers who arrive in Singapore by air. It is also expected to bring about significant spillover benefits for the wider economy. These include greater demand for port and ship-related services, as well as on-ground spending in Singapore for the lifestyle and hospitality sectors.
New Disney Cruise Ship for Families in Southeast Asia
The new ship will feature innovative Disney experiences along with the dazzling entertainment, world-class dining and legendary guest service that set Disney Cruise Line apart. Guests of all ages will find dedicated spaces and activities designed just for them, and families will create unforgettable memories with beloved characters such as Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse, Disney Princesses, Marvel Super Heroes and more.
Disney Cruise Line estimates the passenger capacity of the 208,000-gross-ton ship to be approximately 6,000 with around 2,300 crew members. It is expected to be among the first in the cruise industry to be fueled by green methanol, one of the lowest emission fuels available.
Construction is projected to be completed at the MV Werften shipyard in Wismar, Germany, under the management of Meyer Werft, the Papenburg-based company that built the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish and is constructing two additional Wish-class ships.
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Oceania Cruises Raises the Bar on Entertainment
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Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has unveiled new show-stopping entertainment options on board Vista, the first of two ships in the line's new Allura Class. In addition to introducing new signature dining offerings, destination-rich itineraries and the most luxurious standard accommodations at sea, Oceania Cruises is completely reimagining Vista's entertainment program starting with three uniquely designed shows when she launches in May 2023. Headliners, The Anchor Inn and Into the Night are Broadway-caliber, immersive-style productions featuring recognizable songs by some of the world's most beloved artists and contemporary dance numbers led by "Dancing with the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart.
 "With Vista, our first new ship in more than a decade, we have worked thoughtfully on how to raise the bar even higher on ourselves in every department," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "Long renowned for our stunning design, exquisite culinary offerings and intriguing itineraries, it was time to put the same 'wow' into our entertainment programming. This new lineup is groundbreaking for us, and these three new productions are just the beginning. We are extremely excited to unveil our never-before-seen series of elevated entertainment for our guests to enjoy aboard Vista."
"I'm honored to have the opportunity to develop innovative shows for Oceania Cruises, pushing limits on creativity and theatrics, assembling a star-studded team with credentials spanning television, movies, Broadway, the West End and beyond, resulting in programs that are truly fresh and fun for Vista," shared Kai Alan Carrier, Director of Artistic Theatrical Entertainment, a new role created at Oceania Cruises to elevate entertainment offerings. "Knowing that our guests love recognizable songs and, more importantly, are lively and adventurous, I leaned forward with our offerings. The goal was to truly offer entertainment from a new perspective, which I know we have achieved."
THE PRODUCTIONS
Vista will feature three main productions when she launches in May, each with a distinct personality, with another to follow later in the year. Thoughtfully created by a passionate team dedicated exclusively to each of the shows, an extensive team of performers, producers and technicians has been involved in bringing Oceania Cruises' newest entertainment to life.
Into the Night, choreographed by renowned "Dancing with the Stars" pro dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart, is a dance-centric show featuring an unexpected mix of dance, style and design meant to invoke the excitement of the Video Music Awards, the glamour of "American Idol" and the high-energy drive of "Dancing with the Stars." The contemporary elegance of the show is inspired by the essence of Vista herself. Sophisticated and exciting, Into the Night will leave audiences awestruck as it combines dance with design, exuding a powerful feeling only a live stage show can offer.
Headliners takes guests on a VIP concert journey showcasing a stunning cast performing some of the most recognizable songs in the world. Celebrating the music, not just the artist, Headliners approaches pop favorites in an inspirational way that is simply designed to be a great time. Led by Vista's talented onboard vocalists, complete with fun choreography, guests will have an unforgettable night with music from some of their favorite artists, such as Cher, Celine Dion, the Bee Gees and Adele, in a way they have never seen before.
The Anchor Inn is a light-hearted UK-centric song-and-dance performance with a sprinkle of West End flare. Set in the lively Anchor Inn Pub, a group of regulars celebrates good times, sporting losses and romantic wins to the tune of chart-topping hits by artists like Dusty Springfield, Rod Stewart, Madness, Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones. This hand-clapping, toe-tapping production will leave guests feeling decidedly British, no matter where they are sailing.
An additional edutainment-style production titled The Music Triangle will open later this year, which tells the roots story of nearly all music we love today.
The 1,200-guest Vista sets sail on her inaugural voyage on May 13, 2023, from Rome. For additional information on Oceania Cruises' small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA or speak with a professional travel advisor.
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Holland America Line Adds Boston, Bermuda and Longer Itineraries for 2024-2025
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Holland America Line's 2024-2025 Caribbean season opens for booking today, and the premium cruise line is continuing its trend of longer, more immersive cruise itineraries with the introduction of three new voyages that are 14 and 21 days. Also new for this season is adding Boston, Massachusetts, as a Caribbean departure port — in addition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida — and the return of calls at Bermuda.
 The 2024-2025 season puts the spotlight on longer voyages, offering travelers more time in the Caribbean and the opportunity to visit more islands on one itinerary.
"Holland America Line is meeting the desire of our guests who want more immersive experiences, and we're excited to offer new itineraries and a new departure option for this Caribbean season," said Gus Antorcha, Holland America Line's president. "With sailings covering the entire region and combinable itineraries up to 35 days, our Caribbean cruises extend to lesser-visited islands and are among the most diverse in the industry."
Holland America Line's Caribbean cruises sail from October 2024 through March 2025 and feature five- to 21-day options to the eastern, western and southern regions, including sailings that spend a day discovering the Panama Canal. Six Holland America Line ships will head to the Caribbean — including two Pinnacle Class ships — with the majority of itineraries roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. Two of the new itineraries depart from Boston.
Nearly all itineraries feature Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's award-winning private island in the Bahamas boasting the finest beach in the Caribbean. On select itineraries, evening departures from Puerto Rico, Curaçao, St. Maarten and Aruba mean more time in port and the chance to experience the vibrant Caribbean nightlife.
Guests can cruise to the Caribbean aboard Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam, Volendam and Zuiderdam.
New and Notable Longer Cruises:
New is a unique 21-Day "Perfect Caribbean Escape" cruise roundtrip from Boston aboard Zuiderdam. Departing Oct. 19, 2024, this extended tropical adventure includes a partial Panama Canal transit and a call at Bermuda. Following Bermuda, the ship makes its way to Half Moon Cay; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Curaçao; Aruba; Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Port Canaveral, Florida; and Bimini, Bahamas.
Following the 21-day roundtrip Boston cruise, Zuiderdam offers a new 14-day "Southern Caribbean" itinerary from Boston to Fort Lauderdale departing Nov. 9 that also includes a call at Bermuda. The ship then heads to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Barbados, Curaçao and Half Moon Cay. The 21- and 14-day departures can be combined to form a destination-rich 35-Day Collectors' Voyage for the ultimate Caribbean experience.
Another new 21-day Caribbean exploration sails roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale aboard Volendam. Departing Jan. 4, 2025, this in-depth "Ultimate Caribbean" journey deeply explores the area, with calls at Half Moon Cay; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Tortola; St. Maarten; Antigua; Dominica; St. Lucia; Barbados; St. Vincent; Grenada; Bonaire; Aruba; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Grand Cayman.
Western Caribbean:
Holland America Line's western Caribbean itineraries include six-, seven- and 10-day options. The seven-day cruise calls at Cozumel, Mexico; Half Moon Cay, Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman. The three 10-day itineraries span the region and are combination of ports that include Montego Bay or Falmouth, Jamaica; Mahogany Bay, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Grandy Cayman, Cozumel, Half Moon Cay, and Bimini.
Eastern Caribbean:
The seven-day eastern Caribbean itinerary includes Grand Turk, St. Thomas, San Juan and Half Moon Cay. A longer 11-day "Eastern Caribbean Wayfarer" itinerary calls at St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, St. Kitts, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay.
Southern Caribbean:
In addition to the new Boston to Fort Lauderdale cruise, the southern Caribbean itineraries range from nine to 14 days. The nine-day cruise makes way to the ABC Islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao before visiting Half Moon Cay, while the 10-day itinerary also adds Grand Turk and Amber Cove. The 14-day "Southern Caribbean Holiday" cruise departing Dec. 21, 2024, explores St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico and Half Moon Cay.
Tropical Caribbean:
Guests looking for a shorter getaway can embark on the five-day itinerary that visits Half Moon Cay and Amber Cove. The popular seven-day Tropical Caribbean returns with calls at Grand Turk, Amber Cove and Half Moon Cay.
Partial Panama Canal:
Guests looking to visit the Panama Canal without a coast-to-coast transit can embark on the 12-day "Panama Canal Sunfarer" itinerary. In addition to venturing around Panama Canal's Gatun Lake and a partial transit, the itinerary includes Curaçao, Cartagena, Colon, Puerto Limon, and Half Moon Cay.
Combine Back-to-Back Cruises for Longer Collectors' Voyages
Many of the cruises can be extended into Collectors' Voyages to create the ultimate Caribbean exploration with more economical fares than booking the cruises individually. Ranging from 14 to 35 days, these longer journeys combine nonrepeating, back-to-back itineraries, enabling guests to span more than one Caribbean region and enjoy the ultimate island-hopping journey.
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Princess Cruises Announces New Winemaker Dinner with Caymus Vineyards
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Caymus Vineyards and Cabernet Sauvignon are synonymous with wine enthusiasts globally as one of the most sought-after wines to pour and share around the table for special celebrations. Now Princess Cruises is working with this renowned winery to offer the exclusive Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner, available on Princess ships sailing North America itineraries by the end of April, including all Alaska voyages, and across all ships worldwide by late May.
 Available in the popular Crown Grill specialty restaurant for $140 per person, the new Winemaker Dinner leverages the expansive expertise of Chuck Wagner, owner and winemaker of the renowned Napa Valley's Caymus Vineyards, to deliver a five-course menu (see below), crafted to complement the tasting notes of his wines.
The dinner, available for 12 guests per seating, will be offered 2-3 times per cruise, based on voyage length, and interested guests can reserve their spot once on board.
"Our new Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner further elevates the Princess culinary experience and wonderfully showcases the elegance of cruising," said Sami Kohen, Princess vice president of food and beverage. "Our passionate culinary team and Chuck have curated what promises to deliver a deliciously memorable and tantalizing experience that will have our guests talking long after the last course and glass of wine are served."
Wagner, along with the Princess culinary team, personally selected the wines paired with the multi-course menu served. In addition to Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, he has perfectly matched up the dinner courses with varietals from the family's other offerings, including Caymus-Suisun 'The Walking Fool' Red Blend, Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Sea Sun Pinot Noir and Emmolo Sparkling.
"We have an appreciation for family, friends, delicious food and great wine, along with the many connections between them," said Chuck Wagner, Caymus Vineyards owner and winemaker. "We love how Princess also recognizes that cruise travel fosters deeper relationships with its guests and the destinations they visit by sharing experiences around the table, and we're thrilled to pour our wines and share our passion through a specially curated dinner with this beloved cruise line."
Caymus is a hands-on family affair which Wagner founded in 1972, alongside his late parents, when he was just 19 years old. After 50 harvests, he continues to make two renowned Cabernet Sauvignons - Caymus Napa Valley and Caymus Special Selection.
Chuck now works alongside two of his children, Charlie and Jenny, and the family also makes diverse wines from Napa Valley, other parts of California and beyond. Wagner is widely recognized for his winemaking and industry leadership, and all three Wagners continue to experiment with farming and winemaking, continuing the family legacy and commitment to excellence.
In addition to the new dinner, Caymus Vineyards is also working with Princess on a refreshed wine menu, and Caymus Vineyards will be the curator for the cruise line's Crown Grill steakhouse, chops and seafood specialty restaurant, with wine pairing recommendations on the menu. Coming later this year, guests will have the opportunity to visit Caymus Vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley, and Caymus-Suisun Winery in Suisun Valley, Calif., on exclusive shore excursions offered on various California-based cruises.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.97 |
+ 13.42% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
64.25 |
+ 6.22% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
13.35 |
+ 9.43% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which Holland America ship caught fire and sank off the Alaska coast in October 1980 while on a positioning cruise from Vancouver to the Orient? Her 524 passengers and crew were evacuated safely.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Name the former liners that were sold to the Iranian government for use as accommodation ships in the 1970's?
Answer - Italian Lines flagships MICHELANGELO and RAFFAELLO were sold to Iran when a sale to a Swiss company to operate as floating cancer clinics fell through.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - March 27, 2023
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Disney Cruise Line Announces Inaugural Sailings to New Island Destination, Family Vacations Around the World in Summer 2024
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Disney Cruise Line announced today the inaugural dates and select itineraries for its new island destination in The Bahamas, headlining a season full of new and guest-favorite itineraries around the world in summer 2024. Along with the first sailings to Lighthouse Point, families will be able to choose magical vacations to bucket-list destinations that include the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean.
 "We are delighted to take families to new places during the summer 2024 season, including our newest island destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas," said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. "We're also thrilled to return to Europe with new ports of call and offer exciting adventures to Alaska and the Caribbean. All of these Disney Cruise Line sailings provide the unique experiences that our guests have come to expect from Disney, from world-class dining and dazzling entertainment to character encounters and legendary guest service."
First Sailings to Lighthouse Point
In June 2024, Disney Cruise Line will debut its newest Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point. Guests sailing aboard the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will discover a vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
A seven-night inaugural sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral, Florida, on June 8 will allow guests to be among the first to make a splash in the crystal-clear waters of this new destination at Lighthouse Point. This ultimate Disney Cruise Line island destination itinerary will feature two stops at Lighthouse Point and one day at Castaway Cay. On June 6, a three-night preview cruise on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale will offer a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas.
Following the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point will be a featured port of call on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. These itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special departures including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.
New European Destinations
Dreams will come to life for Disney Cruise Line guests in summer 2024 as the Disney Dream returns to premier European destinations in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, British Isles and popular locales in the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland.
These sailings will feature a number of new ports of call, including Valencia, Spain; Haugesund, Norway; and Hamburg, Germany, along with three Mediterranean destinations that will return for the first time since 2014: Catania, Italy; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Valletta, Malta.
Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome) will range from five to 11 nights, while northern Europe and British Isles sailings will offer itineraries anywhere from three nights to one 12-night voyage that includes the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland and an overnight stay in Reykjavik.
Adventures in Alaska
Cruises to Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, will return on the Disney Wonder from May through September 2024, offering more chances for families to experience the natural splendor and adventure of "The Last Frontier" with five-, seven- and nine-night sailings. Majestic wildlife and stunning scenery in iconic places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap will blend with Disney's world-class entertainment, dining and guest service to create a family-friendly vacation that celebrates the spirit of Alaska both on land and on board.
Tropical Escapes to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral
The Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will travel to sun-kissed islands throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean in summer 2024. All sailings on these Port Canaveral-based ships will feature a visit to Castaway Cay, a picturesque private island oasis in The Bahamas that offers something for everyone in the family, from fun and relaxation to adventurous water activities.
The Disney Wish will feature three- and four-night Bahamian vacations, while the Disney Fantasy will sail to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night cruises. One five-night Disney Fantasy voyage in July will take families to Nassau with two stops in Castaway Cay, while a special 10-night southern Caribbean sailing will give families another opportunity to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to the islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, Tortola and Castaway Cay.
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Victoria Cruises Line Offers a Unique But Affordable Residential Life at Sea Opportunity
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Starting this fall, travel enthusiasts can visit the destinations of their dreams for as little as $79 a day aboard Victoria Cruises Line's luxurious ocean liner, the Victoria Majestic.
 Seeing the world has never been more accessible with Victoria Cruises Line, (https://victoria.cruises/), offering a unique but affordable lifestyle at sea opportunity featuring a long-term, live-aboard residential cruise experience.
Think of it as a renter's ticket to paradise.
Victoria Cruises Line will visit more than 200 exciting destinations when the Victoria Majestic Ocean liner, operating as an elegant and exclusive houseboat, launches in September from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
With its headquarters in Limassol, Cyprus, Victoria Cruises Line offers travelers an intriguing adults-only (18 years or over) adventure to rent luxury suites and premium staterooms for a minimum of six months, or long-term for an unlimited maximum period.
Rental costs depend on the length of stay. For instance, if you rent for 37 months or longer (indefinitely), the company's price for an inside cabin is $79 per person per day.
What do you get for $79 a day?
This includes three quality meals, not only in the buffet restaurant but also in the ship's main Paris restaurant, free room service, free drinks, fruit, and sweet and savory pastries available all day. So, if you don't want to splurge on premium drinks and theme restaurant meals, travelers can live comfortably for $79 a day.
"See the sights…you always wanted to experience around the world without a huge investment. Rather than having to invest in a condo on a ship or in a longer-term trip for years, Victoria Cruises Line offers our customers a more flexible lifestyle at sea," said Olavs Zvinelis, CEO of Victoria Cruises Line. "There is no need for our customers to pay a year or more in advance. This makes it easier for customers to plan as our rental option is more wallet-friendly. Also, as part of our loyalty program, the longer you rent, the bigger the discount."
Zvinelis added that so far 50% of the ship's staterooms and suites have already been reserved by clients and the majority have chosen the unlimited, undefined rental period.
Victoria Cruises Line's around-the-world trip will take approximately 27 months with about 540 days spent at ports. The boats will spend an average of 1-7 days in each port.
In addition to their forward-thinking rental concept, another innovation setting apart Victoria Cruises Line is the ship's inside cabin view for its interior cabin occupants. The ship's inside cabins feature an LCD monitor enabling passengers to view images from the ship's exterior cameras.
Other intriguing features Victoria Cruises Line is planning include continuous live coverage of the ship's journey via onboard cameras.
Victoria Cruises Line also has ambitious plans to launch a reality TV show where a film crew will explore the lives of some of Victoria Majestic's passengers.
If Victoria Cruises Line's first boat is a success, they will look to expand their fleet while keeping the focus on maintaining a high quality of service.
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Celebrity Cruises' Next Edge-Series Ship Brings New Flex Fuel Engine to Industry
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When Celebrity Cruises introduces the fifth ship in the revolutionary Edge Series, it will feature the collaborative efforts of its parent company Royal Caribbean Group, technology group Wärtsilä and shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique (CdA) to advance the use of alternative fuels for the cruise industry. The ship continues the innovation that debuted with the Edge Series but will also be equipped with a new engine model, along with storage and delivery systems, that will give unmatched fuel flexibility, with the ability to use three types of fuel, including methanol.
 "As we innovate our ship design and offerings, we're also focused on equally evolving the fuel and technology landscape that powers them," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "By incorporating tri-fueled engines, we are ensuring that as alternative, low-carbon-based solutions become more viable, our ships will be ready to adapt and drive the industry forward to a more sustainable and net zero emissions future."
"With the launch of our Edge Series of ships in 2018, we set ambitious sustainability goals to make these ships the most energy efficient large vessels at sea," said Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. "Working collaboratively with our partners, we have continued to develop new technologies and achieve breakthroughs with each subsequent ship."
To allow for the ship's fuel flexibility, Wärtsilä will deliver two converted 8-cylinder Wärtsilä 46F engines to allow them to utilize three fuel sources, including methanol. These changes not only advance carbon-free cruising, but by adding methanol as a fuel option, local emission like sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter are significantly reduced.
"Wärtsilä has invested heavily into researching viable future carbon-neutral fuels for the marine industry, and methanol has emerged as one of the most promising candidates. This will be the second methanol-fueled engine conversion that we have undertaken, and the first with the Wärtsilä 46F engine. We share the commitment to decarbonize shipping, and the transparent partnership between our three companies for this newbuild project is a tremendous boost for achieving this aim," says Håkan Agnevall, President and CEO of Wärtsilä.
"Development and integration of methanol systems on a cruise ship is a new challenge for Chantiers de l'Atlantique and, for the first time, is part of our decarbonization program," said Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard.
The order for the engines was included in Wärtsilä's order book in January 2023 and the full scope includes two 8-cylinder Wärtsilä 46F engines capable of operating with methanol as fuel, two 12-cylinder Wärtsilä 46F engines, and one Wärtsilä 32 engine. Wärtsilä will convert the 46F engines to run on methanol at the yard, prior to commissioning.
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Carnival Firenze Opens for Sale With Cruises From Long Beach
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Carnival Cruise Line today opened reservations for the inaugural season of its next new ship to showcase Carnival Fun Italian Style experiences, Carnival Firenze, which will begin sailing year-round from Long Beach, Calif. starting in May 2024 through April 2025.
 "Carnival Firenze is named after the spectacular city of Florence, Italy. She was designed to evoke the same charm and beauty found in Florence and she'll also pack in plenty of Carnival fun, which will be brought to life by the friendly and dedicated team members that make cruises across our fleet memorable," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "This truly stunning ship will serve as a great new cruise vacation option from Long Beach, joining Carnival Panorama and Radiance, and offering a range of sailing lengths to Baja Mexico and the Mexican Riviera."
The newly available sailings give guests 15 different itinerary options of three to seven-day cruises. Carnival Firenze's sailings will feature visits to popular Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera destinations. Some of the sailings now open for sale from Long Beach, Calif. include:
• 5-Day Mexican Riviera Inaugural Cruise departs May 2, 2024, and visits Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico
• 6-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise, offering several departure options, visits Ensenada and two days in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• 7-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise, offering several departure options, visits Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Carnival Firenze will be the second ship to showcase all-new Carnival Fun Italian Style experiences, which will debut with the May 2023 arrival of Carnival Venezia. Carnival Fun Italian Style incorporates Carnival's signature fun, friendly crew and many familiar venues, plus several new, creative concepts – including Italian-themed restaurants, bars and entertainment – and beautiful, unique architectural designs.
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NCL Announces Tony Award-nominated "Beetlejuice" to Debut Aboard Norwegian Viva
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Norwegian Cruise Line today announced “Beetlejuice” The Musical as the headline production aboard its newest groundbreaking ship, Norwegian Viva, along with the ship’s full lineup of onboard entertainment offerings debuting August 2023.
Marking the first time the Tony Award-nominated musical will be performed at sea, the 90-minute Broadway adaptation of Tim Burton’s iconic 1988 film narrates the story of the Deetz family as they attempt to remodel an uproariously haunted house. The musical’s paranormal antics will be heightened by NCL’s three-story multi-purpose Viva Theatre & Club and its immersive special effects and cutting-edge lighting and audio.
 David J. Herrera, incoming president of Norwegian Cruise Line said, “NCL has a history of pioneering the cruise experience and delivering the high-caliber entertainment programming our guests expect. We are dedicated to pushing the envelope, delivering on those expectations, and putting our guests first as we elevate our onboard offerings for the ultimate vacation at sea. This summer, I cannot wait to bring the fun and nostalgia of ‘Beetlejuice’ to our all-new Norwegian Viva.”
NCL’s Senior Vice President of Entertainment and Cruise Programming, Richard Ambrose, adds, “We pride ourselves on not only delivering amazing performances for theater fans but introducing guests to Broadway and West End-caliber shows, which are made even more special by the incredible setting of the Viva Theatre & Club that seamlessly transforms from a best-in-class theater experience to an expansive nightclub.”
The elaborate “Beetlejuice” production will charm and captivate guests as performers dance and sing along to show tune classics including “Day-O,” and “Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora),” while also reveling in the nostalgia from the pop culture classic film. Michelle D’Amico, who was a cast member of the Broadway production of “Beetlejuice” will join Norwegian Viva playing the role as “Lydia” for the first-at-sea rendition.
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its unwavering commitment to bringing world-class productions to the high seas, having previously debuted shows including "Six," "Jersey Boys," "Footloose" and more across its current 18-ship fleet. This announcement also comes on the heels of the wildly popular debut of "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," aboard Norwegian Prima, which featured a show-stopping performance from "American Idol" season two finalist, Kimberley Locke, during its 2022 inaugural season.
After the successful debut of one of the world’s most iconic game shows, “The Price is Right LIVE,” aboard Norwegian Prima last year, Norwegian Viva will also offer a live game show experience with the cruise industry’s first "Press Your Luck LIVE" at-sea. The immersive experience invites the audience to be part of the classic show and win incredible grand prizes.
The palatial Viva Theater & Club features sophisticated special effects, a multi-story video wall, a show-stopping chandelier and VIP lounge seating, making it the ideal venue for Vegas-style night club events, such as “Ocean Music Fest,” the ultimate jam session where multiple musicians merge their talents on one stage for a world-class immersive concert.
Norwegian Viva will also feature returning guest favorites, including "Improv @ Sea" Comedy Club; "Syd Norman's Pour House," which features rock-and-roll tributes to Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, and other legendary artists of the Classic Rock genre; and more.
Norwegian Viva is the second of six vessels in the Cruise Line’s highly anticipated Prima Class, the Brand’s first new class of ships in nearly 10 years. The elevated offerings of the Prima Class prioritize guest experience and raise the bar on cruising through world class cuisine, the Brand’s most spacious design yet, and stellar onboard activities including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack. Boasting nine new dining and beverage options, guests can sample cuisines from around the world by visiting Indulge Food Hall, the upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; or enjoy the elevated menus at Hudson’s, the complimentary restaurant overlooking 270-degrees of ocean views. Norwegian Viva also features the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush, and NCL’s industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar with Metropolitan Bar. Debuting in August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December for a season of Caribbean itineraries.
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Princess Cruises Announces Lavazza as Official Coffee Partner
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Princess Cruises, the world's most iconic cruise brand, today announced that world-renowned coffee brand, Lavazza, is now the line's Official Coffee Partner. For more than 120 years, Lavazza has expressed the essence of real Italian coffee, with a passion for superior quality.
 "Princess guests love their coffee as the morning ritual at the International Café in the legendary Princess Piazza. With a relentless focus on what's important to our guests, we are upgrading the experience and magnifying our Italian heritage with Lavazza," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "Our Lavazza partnership gives our guests yet another thing to love about a Princess vacation."
Lavazza offerings will begin rolling out on Princess ships throughout the spring and guests can expect to enjoy the brand's array of hot coffee options and convenient Ready-to-Drink cans. The relationship will extend beyond offering Lavazza products and services on board to include unique coffee-inspired dinners and recipes collectively designed by Lavazza experts and Princess executive chefs, educational sessions, tastings, food pairings and samplings. The two brands will also collaborate on upcoming marketing campaigns, promotions and exclusive events.
"We have been inspired by the way Princess Cruises creates memorable experiences for their guests and feel a strong synergy between both brands in our commitment to quality, innovation and entertainment," shared Camille Vareille, vice president - head of marketing Americas at Lavazza Group. "We are excited to come onboard to offer an elevated coffee program and showcase our premium products to a broader, international audience."
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
8.79 |
+ 2.09% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
60.49 |
- 1.40% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
12.20 |
- 1.37% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Name the former liners that were sold to the Iranian government for use as accommodation ships in the 1970's?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Name the former Holland America liner that along with QE2 ended up being one of last two passenger ships to cross the Atlantic on a regular basis. What was her name when she was retired in 1988 and whom did she sail for?
Answer - The former Atlantic liner that sailed with QE2 was the Stefan Batory of Polish Ocean Lines. She was formerly Holland America's Maasdam.
courtesy of Michael Ohalloran
Cruise News - March 20, 2023
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Celebrity Cruises Adds Two Exclusive Preview Sailings of Brand-new Celebrity Ascent
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Offering two exclusive preview sailings prior to her official maiden voyage, Celebrity Cruises, is giving travelers the chance to sample a taste of relaxed luxury at sea on board the brand-new Celebrity Ascent, the fourth ship in the industry-transforming Edge Series.
The two new sailings include:
• a four-night Western Caribbean itinerary departing Port Everglades on November 22, 2023, and taking guests to Cozumel, Mexico over the American Thanksgiving holiday;
• and a three-night Bahamas cruise departing Port Everglades on November 26, 2023 and visiting the lively street markets of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This ship is going to be beautiful beyond words – truly the embodiment of a relaxed luxury resort at sea - and I’m thrilled to be able to offer travelers a sneak peek of all that she offers,” said Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. “These sampler sailings will cement in our guests’ hearts that the experience onboard a Celebrity ship goes beyond being a traditional cruise line, and they will definitely leave them wanting more in the year ahead!”
The “twin sister” of Celebrity Beyond in every way and more, Celebrity Ascent, is designed by a team of modern lifestyle icons including multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus; lauded Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku; innovative British architect Tom Wright; and Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud.
Guests aboard Celebrity Ascent will enjoy signature experiences found exclusively onboard a Celebrity Cruises Edge Series ship, including:
• Transformational accommodations including legendary two-story Edge Villa staterooms with direct access to the exclusive suite-only The Retreat Sun Deck as well as Infinite Veranda staterooms that transform into open-air verandas, among the largest at sea;
• Awe-inspiring views from the iconic Magic Carpet - the world's first cantilevered cruise ship experience, and from bow to stern as a result of the unique outward-facing ship design;
• The pinnacle of relaxation, design and luxury starting with a sprawling Nate Berkus-designed Sunset Bar; a world-class Resort Deck with exclusive cabanas, infinity-edge plunge pools and two-story Martini-shaped hot tubs;
• Culinary offerings for everyone with more than 30 distinct food and drink venues, including the high-tech, immersive Le Petit Chef Dinner Experience; the Eden Restaurant offering its three-story floor-to-ceiling windows, inventive, mixology-focused cocktails and unforgettable globally-inspired dishes from around the world; and the incomparable Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, featuring the most exquisite cuisine at sea.
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Carnival Cruise Line Becomes First Cruise Line to Sail 100 Million Guests
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Carnival Cruise Line has 100 million reasons to celebrate after announcing today it achieved a major milestone for the industry as the first cruise line to embark 100 million guests since its first sailing. Carnival President Christine Duffy visited Carnival Sunrise today as guests boarded the ship at PortMiami, where the cruise line was founded, to thank them for choosing fun since 1972 and making Carnival the world's most popular cruise line.
 The milestone was commemorated as Debi and David Clifford, who are vacationing from Ohio and representing Carnival guests everywhere as the 100 millionth, boarded the ship with their family. They were recognized with fanfare from Duffy and the ship's team members, who are led by Captain Luca Cherchi. Other guests embarking on the cruise were able to take part in the festivities as well – and take special photos signifying how each is "One in 100 Million."
"We're the first cruise line to meet this incredible mark of 100 million guests and I believe it is a testament to the fun, inclusive atmosphere our valued guests and our extraordinary team members have created together on board our ships for the past 51 years," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "There is certainly much more fun to come. We're continuing to grow our operations at a rapid pace – with three ships joining our fleet by the spring of next year."
The company's new Carnival Celebration is already proving popular with guests in its first few months of sailing from Miami, and now the cruise line is preparing for another ship to debut in May. Carnival Venezia will expand Carnival's New York offerings from seasonal to year-round and bring to life a host of all-new "Carnival Fun Italian Style" experiences. Later this year, Carnival Jubilee, a third sister ship to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, will join the fleet and sail from Galveston, Tex. In the spring of 2024, Carnival Firenze, sister ship to Carnival Venezia, will begin offering year-round cruises from Long Beach, Calif.
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Viking Announces New River Voyage for 2024: "Paris & D-day 80th Anniversary"
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Viking today announced its new Paris & D-Day 80th Anniversary voyage for the 2024 European river season. With departure dates running from March through November 2024, the special 12-day voyage from London to Paris will commemorate Operation Overlord and the historic battles of Normandy, which took place nearly 80 years ago and served as the catalyst to the liberation of Western Europe from German occupation.
 "Many of our guests, particularly those with family members who served in the armed forces, have a keen interest in World War II history," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "In keeping with our commitment to offer experiences for The Thinking Person, we are pleased to unveil this special voyage that commemorates the 80th Anniversary of D-Day—one of the most significant milestones in modern history."
Guests booked on Viking's new Paris & D-Day 80th Anniversary voyage begin their journey in London to visit historic World War II sites—including the Churchill War Rooms, where the D-Day landings were prepared in England, and Bletchley Park, the home of the World War II codebreakers. Guests may also learn about Britain's Special Forces and its allies during a visit to the Imperial War Museum London and experience Gunwharf Quays, the D-Day Museum and Southwick House—where Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower planned Operation Overlord.
After four days in England, guests continue on to Paris to embark on an award-winning Viking Longship. Sailing roundtrip from Paris, guests may explore Giverny and visit the beautiful gardens and charming farmhouse where Claude Monet lived and worked, trace the footsteps of Joan of Arc in Rouen, and walk the hallowed ground at Normandy's American Military Cemetery and World War II beaches.
Hosting 168 guests in 84 staterooms, Viking Longships on the Seine River are built specifically to navigate into the heart of Paris, with an exclusive docking location at Port de Grenelle, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. The ships feature an Aquavit Terrace and a wide variety of stateroom choices, as well as Viking's signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. The vessels also have a hybrid propulsion system with batteries and are also equipped for shore power to reduce reliance on fuel while in port. Onboard solar panels further contribute to the ships' energy efficiency.
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Royal Caribbean Launches Art Program to Debut on Icon of the Seas
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Royal Caribbean International has launched a search for iconic artistry to bring the Caribbean spirit to life on the iconic canvas that is the world's best family vacation, Icon of the Seas. In the new "Artist Discovery Program," up-and-coming artists from destinations the cruise line visits can vie to put their work on display for millions of vacationers who will set sail for years to come. The program's purpose is to infuse every region's spirit and culture into the curated art collections on board ships, in order to highlight and celebrate the very destinations and their people at the heart of Royal Caribbean's memorable vacations. Beginning in the Caribbean, local artists can send their submissions starting today and through April 4 here.
 "The Artist Discovery Program is a project close to our hearts at Royal Caribbean International because the destinations we visit are family. And it's only fitting that we begin our search for up-and-coming artists who are in the Caribbean; it's where we got our start more than 50 years ago," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Vacationers want to immerse themselves in the places they visit. This is a way to spotlight the beauty of the local cultures and people in the places they see and enjoy every day on their cruise, beginning with large-scale canvases on a first-of-its-kind adventure – Icon of the Seas."
The first group of budding artists, making up the Artist Discovery Program: Caribbean Edition, will be commissioned to paint nine large-scale murals in three highly visible locations: the Royal Promenade neighborhood, the heartbeat of the new ship; among the first sights guests see at Icon's main entrance; and within the Suite Neighborhood. Each piece will invoke the vibrancy of the Caribbean, joining the collection on board that will include an array of pieces created by Caribbean artists or inspired by the region.
Every artist will receive a grant from the cruise line, ranging from $20,000 to more than $100,000, to see their vision through. Later this year, as artists in residence, the winners will work closely with the Newbuilding team behind Royal Caribbean's renowned ships to bring their concepts to life in Turku, Finland, where Icon is under construction.
To vie for a spot in the first edition of Artist Discovery Program, artists must submit the following:
• Five samples of conceptual work: The work must be original and may not currently be published or on display.
• A brief artist statement that helps explain their work, inspiration and other details regarding the pieces submitted.
• A copy of their resume.
Icon is the first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation. From the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure, the brand-new getaway delivers every kind of family and vacationers their version of the ultimate family adventure. In store is an all-encompassing lineup of firsts and next-level favorites across eight neighborhoods. Between the adrenaline-pumping thrills at the new Thrill Island neighborhood and unrivaled ways to chill at neighborhoods like the new Chill Island and the luxurious four-level Suite Neighborhood, adventurers bonding with their families or getting away with friends will have all the ways to stay and play their way.
The first Icon Class ship will sail year-round, 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami. Every cruise will visit Royal Caribbean's top-rated private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, and a mix of destinations like Cozumel, Mexico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Basseterre, St. Kitts.
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Carnival Serves Up New Alcohol-Free Cocktails
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Carnival Cruise Line is mixing some of its most popular cocktails as delicious alcohol-free alternatives. Guest-favorite drinks from the mixologists at Carnival’s ever-popular Alchemy Bar are now available with non-alcoholic spirits produced by industry-leading distiller Lyre’s, making Carnival the first cruise line to offer a full range of alcohol-free cocktails.
 “Our new partnership with Lyre’s gives guests who want non-alcoholic cocktails the best options at sea. We’ve seen popularity for non-alcoholic cocktails grow rapidly, so to meet that trend, our mixologists have been working to craft alternative versions of our most popular cocktails with none of the alcohol, but all the flavor,” said Zachary Sulkes, Carnival’s senior director of beverage operations.
Lyre’s is the world’s most awarded line of non-alcoholic spirits and a global leader in the emerging segment. The company uses all-natural flavors, including essences, extracts and distillates, to match the aroma, taste and appearance you find within time-tested classics.
Seven Popular Alchemy Bar Cocktails Recreated with Lyre’s:
• Martini Seduction: Red passion fruit nectar, fresh lime juice and a hint of orange mix with Lyre’s White Cane instead of vodka to create this swoon-worthy drink.
• Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini: Lyre’s Agave Blanco stands in for vodka to bring this spicy, pineapple cocktail into its non-alcoholic form.
• The Remedy: Orange juice, pineapple and fresh lime juice are mixed with Lyre’s White Cane and Spiced Cane instead of dark and coconut rum.
• Hearts of Fire: This award-winning concoction featuring fresh thyme and raspberries is re-imagined with Lyre’s Dry London instead of gin.
• Restorative Basil Drop: Lyre’s Dry London is mixed with fresh basil and citrus to stimulate and restore the senses.
• The Perfect Storm: This invigorating boost features strawberry puree, fresh lime and a hit of rosemary and Lyre’s Dry London instead of vodka.
• Cucumber Sunrise: Another award-winning favorite among Carnival guests delivers the same light and delicious flavor with watermelon nectar, cucumber, lime juice and a splash of orange juice mixed with Lyre’s Agave Blanco instead of vodka.
Alchemy Bar is featured on nearly every Carnival ship sailing from the U.S. For more details about Alchemy Bar, visit the bar’s page on Carnival.com. The new, non-alcoholic versions of the popular cocktails will be offered on ships homeported in Australia at a later date. In addition to the full range of non-alcoholic cocktails offered at Alchemy Bar, Carnival’s main dining rooms will now serve Lyre’s alcohol-free prosecco among the many wines offered across the fleet.
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Royal Caribbean Group Appoints Rebecca Yeung to Board of Directors
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Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) announced the appointment of Rebecca Yeung, corporate vice president, operations science and advanced technology at FedEx Corporation (NYSE: FDX), to its Board of Directors, effective March 15, 2023.
 "Ms. Yeung brings a valuable combination of skills to our board, as she is well-versed in technology, digitization and business strategy," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman of the Board, Royal Caribbean Group.
"We're excited to welcome Rebecca Yeung to the Board of Directors as we continue to deliver the world's best vacations, responsibly," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "We believe her experience in technology, automation and innovation will be a valuable addition to the board as we usher in the next phases of our growth."
Yeung has nearly 30 years of global experience in both strategy and operations technology. She joined FedEx Corporation – a global logistics company with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services – in 1998 and has served in various marketing, innovation, and technology roles.
In her current role, Yeung is responsible for advancing FedEx's innovation and transformation strategy, including scaling robotics and automation technology, autonomous vehicles, decision science, and electromobility. Prior to this role, she served as vice president, advanced technology & innovation at FedEx since 2015. Yeung also serves on the Board of Directors of Columbus McKinnon.
Yeung is a graduate of Fudan University in Shanghai, China, and has an MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
8.61 |
- 11.15% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
61.35 |
- 8.24% |
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
12.37 |
- 12.02% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Name the former Holland America liner that along with QE2 ended up being one of last two passenger ships to cross the Atlantic on a regular basis. What was her name when she was retired in 1988 and whom did she sail for?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which cruise ship survived being struck by a 100 foot high rogue wave while approaching Casablanca during her world cruise of 1976? She rolled an estimated 40 degrees but was able to right herself.
Answer - The ship that hit the 100 foot rogue wave was the SS Rotterdam V. She easily survived but had lots of deck chairs in the pool.
courtesy of Bill Forsstrom, Cincinnati
Cruise News - March 13, 2023
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Sun Princess Milestone: Float Out Ceremony Celebration for Next-Generation Ship in the Fleet
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Princess Cruises celebrated a momentous construction milestone this week with the float out of the cruise line's bespoke, next-generation ship - Sun Princess - at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.
 Following the Italian shipyard's tradition, the float out is marked by a special ceremony where a "Madrina" is named to offer blessings and best wishes for the vessel, celebrating the flow of water into the ship's building dock. Princess Cruises Hotel General Manager Simona Stumberger was selected to serve in this special role as an ambassador for Princess, because she epitomizes professionalism and always delivers service with a smile.
A native of Slovenia where Stumberger studied hospitality management, she began her career at sea in the bar department and further diversified her hotel experience by working in guest services, and hand in hand with the hotel and food and beverage divisions. Stumberger has been with Princess Cruises for nearly five years.
"Simona is the ideal candidate to serve as Madrina of our newest ship, Sun Princess, because she embodies all the best qualities that our company has to offer – an unwavering commitment to service, hospitality and friendliness," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "Sun Princess will usher in an exciting new era for our company and the industry, and we can't think of a better person to serve in this important role."
The float out completes the first comprehensive phase of construction for Sun Princess which now transitions to focus on building the ship's interiors.
Princess also announced that it has appointed Gennaro Arma as captain, leading Sun Princess shipbuilding operations, readiness and delivery, and overseeing the ship's final stages of construction, working closely with brand's naval architects, engineers and shipbuilding experts, as well as the shipyard management team.
The 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess will offer an array of exciting new dining, entertainment and activity offerings, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories. The ship will be highlighted by amazing, never-before-seen spaces such as The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, the next-level, brand-iconic Piazza, and three-story Horizons Dining Room that are sure to have everyone talking.
In addition, Sun Princess has been designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Sun Princess sustainability features include:
Fuel and Energy Management
• Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) as the primary fuel and the first ship in the Princess fleet to be powered by LNG. This cleaner burning fuel will significantly reduce air emissions and marine gas-oil to minimize the cruise line's environmental footprint. With a capacity of 4,000m3 sufficient for almost 9 days sailing at service speed. The secondary fuel is marine gas-oil so no heavy or intermediate fuel oil will be carried on board.
• Two shore power connections, also known as "cold ironing," on both the port and starboard side of the vessel to enable the ship to turn off the engines and connect to local electric power to run all onboard services during day-long calls in various ports. Sun Princess is outfitted with custom-built electrical connection cabinets that automatically connect the ship's electrical network to the local electrical network ashore, reducing air emissions in the ports that support shore power.
• Another first for Princess to supply sustainable power and better maneuverability to save fuel, Sun Princess will be outfitted with two Azipod propulsions for forward and backward movements and the four largest Controllable Pitch Propellers, known as bow thrusters, on the market for sideways navigation.
Waste Management
• All Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) installed for waste. MAGS is the world's most compact, efficient and environmentally safe technology to convert a variety of combustible materials into thermal energy – energy that can be used in other systems onboard.
• Food waste management designed with distributed and centralized bio-digesters and dehydrators as a clean alternative to recycle food waste and reduce use of landfills.
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Carnival Cruise Line Adding Fourth Ship to Galveston
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Carnival Cruise Line announced today it is expanding its offerings in Galveston, Tex., by bringing a fourth ship, Carnival Miracle, to the port that will offer Texas-sized sailings of nine-, 10-, 11- and 12 days beginning in the fall of 2024 through spring 2025. Reservations for these departures are now open for sale.
 “We have always offered a great variety of cruises from Galveston, but by adding a fourth Carnival ship to homeport in Galveston and sailing these longer itineraries, we are giving our guests great new choices, especially for those who want to experience a wider variety of beautiful ports of call and more time to enjoy their time at sea,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Galveston is one of our top homeports, and with the arrival of Carnival Jubilee and the new Carnival Miracle itineraries, it will only grow in popularity with our guests.”
Carnival Miracle will reposition from San Francisco to Galveston on Oct. 1, 2024, and operate a spectacular Carnival Journeys voyage that visits Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Cartagena, Colombia; and a Panama Canal transit.
Once in Galveston, Carnival Miracle will offer a series of 19 cruises beginning on Oct. 16, 2024. A sampling of some of the new itineraries now open for sale include:
• Nine-Day Exotic Western Caribbean Sailing departs Oct. 16, 2024, with stops in Montego Bay, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan; Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico.
• 10-Day Panama Canal Sailing departs Nov. 15, 2024, featuring stops in Cozumel, Mexico; Limon, Costa Rica; Colon, Panama (and tours of the Panama Canal); and Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan.
• 11-Day Exotic Caribbean Sailing departs Nov. 25, 2024, with visits to Montego Bay, Jamaica; Amber Cove; Grand Turk; Princess Cays and Nassau, The Bahamas.
• 12-Day Carnival Journeys Southern Caribbean Sailing departs Jan. 26, 2025, and visits Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Aruba; Bonaire; Curacao; Cozumel. Mexico.
The 2,200-guest Carnival Miracle recently completed a dry dock where Carnival’s stunning new red, white and blue livery was added to the ship’s hull. The livery serves as an homage to the patriotic colors that also represent Carnival, which proudly sails as America’s Cruise Line. Carnival Miracle features many of the signature venues guests know and love – from Guy’s Burger Joint to the BlueIguana Cantina, the RedFrog and Alchemy bars, as well as WaterWorks Aqua Park and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
Carnival Miracle will further diversify Carnival’s deployment from Galveston, joining Carnival Breeze, which offers four- and five-day cruises; Carnival Dream, which sails mostly six- and eight-day cruises, and the new Excel-Class Carnival Jubilee featuring a rollercoaster, which arrives this December to begin week-long Western Caribbean sailings.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Expands Exotic Itineraries Collection for Its 2024/25 Season
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Norwegian Cruise Line today announced the opening for sale of new 2024/25 exotic itineraries, including the debut of Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky in Asia, and new ports of call to Manama, Bahrain; Rarotonga, Cook Islands; Sokhna, Egypt; and Akita, Japan.
With this new season of itineraries from October 2024 through December 2025, NCL is expanding its voyages to Antarctica, South America, Africa, Asia, Middle East, Australia and New Zealand by 37%, and its Extraordinary Journeys - the Brand’s collection of immersive and port-rich voyages - overall by 15%. This collection of itineraries only reaffirms the company’s commitment to providing guests with carefully curated voyages to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
 Harry Sommer, President and Chief Executive Officer, Norwegian Cruise Line
Our guests are craving longer, immersive and more unique itineraries that take them off the beaten path. These new sailings represent the most diverse itinerary program to date and feature many brand firsts, including an extended Asia offering and new ports in Argentina, Bahrain, Japan and Egypt. Coupled with NCL’s renowned onboard experiences – from spacious accommodations, exceptional entertainment and diverse dining options that rival land-based offerings, it truly is an unforgettable way to explore the world.
Notable itineraries available to book as of today, include:
NCL’s first voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina: Norwegian Star will sail a 14-day South America voyage to Brazil and Antarctica departing March 1, 2025, offering a more immersive and port-intensive way to experience South America and cruise to Antarctica. Embarking from Ushuaia, Argentina for this once-in-a-lifetime journey reduces the number of sea days needed for an Antarctica cruise providing more port time for travelers. During the voyage, guests cruise through Paradise Bay in Antarctica and witness the surrounding glacial mountains and local wildlife while also having the opportunity to experience the culture in Puerto Madryn, and Buenos Aires, Argentina; Montevideo and Punta Del Este, Uruguay; and Sao Paulo (Santos).
NCL’s maiden call to Bahrain, its first dedicated Middle East sailing: The Brand will offer a seven-day Middle East cruise on Norwegian Sun from Doha, Qatar to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) departing April 12, 2025. An overnight stay in Abu Dhabi, UAE provides travelers with more time to explore the culturally rich destination. In addition, the open-jaw voyage includes visits to Dammam, Saudi Arabia; Manama, Bahrain – a first time visit for NCL; as well as Dubai and Sir Bani Yas, the largest natural island southwest of Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Three NCL ships to Asia for the first time: Together Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky will debut in Asia, offering an extensive eight-month season from October 2024 through May 2025, sailing country-intensive voyages in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan – including a collection of coveted Japanese spring cherry blossom and fall foliage itineraries. For the very first time, NCL will call to Akita, Japan during Norwegian Sun’s 12-day roundtrip sailing from Tokyo, embarking on Oct. 23, 2024. Both ships will be joined in region by Norwegian Spirit, who will embark on a brand-new repositioning voyage from Australia to Asia on Dec. 7, 2024, followed by her first voyage in Asia on Dec. 21, 2024.
Extraordinary Journeys: NCL’s collection of immersive journeys that take guests to lesser-visited and once-in-a-lifetime destinations will include two new back-to-back voyages aboard Norwegian Sky. Departing December 2024, the vessel will offer a 16-day Africa sailing to Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania, Oman and more during its voyage from Dubai, UAE to Mauritius. Immediately following, she will offer a 17-day sailing from Mauritius to Singapore with calls to Seychelles, Maldives and Zanzibar. On April 19, 2025, Norwegian Sun will embark on a 16-day cruise from Dubai, UAE to Haifa, Israel featuring 10 ports of call, including Sokhna, Egypt – a brand-new port for NCL. Visiting Sokhna, Egypt allows for easier access to Cairo, where guests can explore the ancient Great Pyramids of Giza.
Brand-new Australian itinerary: Norwegian Spirit returns Down Under for her third season and launches a new 14-day open-jaw voyage from Sydney to Bali via the Queensland coast in December 2024. The voyage includes calls to Cairns and Darwin, Australia; as well as an overnight visit to Bali (Benoa), Indonesia, providing more time for cruisers to enjoy this exotic destination. In addition, the ship will make the Brand’s first port of call to Rarotonga, Cook Islands in November 2025.
Two NCL ships departing from Haifa, Israel: In November 2024, Norwegian Sky will sail a 16-day Middle East Extraordinary Journey from Haifa, Israel to Dubai, UAE, including the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for guests to transit the Suez Canal in Egypt. Guests can also choose from an 11-day Mediterranean cruise from Haifa, Israel to Istanbul, Turkey aboard Norwegian Sun. Departing May 5, 2025, the voyage will call to sought-after destinations in Greece, Turkey and Egypt.
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Disney Announces New Island Destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas
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In summer 2024, Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time. Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
 "At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community," said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. "We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty."
New details about Lighthouse Point reveal a relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they'll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination's electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.
"Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way," said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. "We're focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site's biodiversity to shine."
Fun and Relaxation for Everyone
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney's cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
• Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.
• A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
• A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.
• Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more.
• North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.
• Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids' club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios' "The Little Mermaid," plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.
• Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.
• Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.
• A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Disney's new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
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Royal Caribbean's Beach Club in the Bahamas Moves Forward for 2025 Opening
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Royal Caribbean International, the world's largest and most popular cruise line, is moving ahead with the development of the first Royal Beach Club after receiving approval from the government of The Bahamas. The 17-acre destination experience coming to the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, will combine the island's striking beaches with the cruise line's signature experiences to create the ultimate beach day – The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island.
 Crafted in close collaboration with the Bahamian government, the new project will feature a public-private partnership in which Bahamians will be invited to own up to 49% equity in the beach club. Local businesses and entrepreneurs will also have the opportunity to manage the vast majority of the experience. Overall, the new venture will generate hundreds of jobs across its construction and long-term operation.
"The Bahamas has been a phenomenal partner since the very start, when they became our first port of call more than 50 years ago," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "As we continue to bring millions of visitors to experience attractions throughout Nassau each year, The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island is the next bold adventure in Royal Caribbean's commitment to both increasing tourism in The Bahamas and delivering memorable vacations to our guests."
Alongside private cabanas, stunning pools and more, the vibrant Bahamian spirit and culture will come to life throughout the world-class destination experience. Vacationers will be welcomed by local architecture that complements the exceptional views of The Bahamas' turquoise-blue waters and white sand beaches, along with experiences that feature Bahamian fare, island-style barbecues, live music and local artisans.
The beach club will be made up of 13 acres of land owned by the cruise line and 4 acres of Crown Land. The Crown Land will be contributed as equity in the new venture to ensure a share of the profits return to the government and the Bahamian people in a first-of-its-kind agreement in The Bahamas. This, in addition to a new tourism levy, will go into reinvesting in the local community. The collaboration between the government, the community and Royal Caribbean will continue as the development moves through the stages of planning and completion.
More details about The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island, set to open in 2025, will be revealed in the coming months.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
9.69 |
- 12.47% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
66.86 |
|
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.06 |
- 13.85% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which cruise ship survived being struck by a 100 foot high rogue wave while approaching Casablanca during her world cruise of 1976? She rolled an estimated 40 degrees but was able to right herself.
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What ever became of Cunard's Carpathia that became famous for rescuing the survivors of Titanic?
Answer - The outbreak of World War I saw her on the on the Liverpool-New York route from 1915 until 17 July 1918, when she was torpedoed and sunk by U55, 170 miles west of Bishop Rock. Five crew were killed, but the remaining 215 on board, iNCLuding 57 passengers, were rescued by HMS Snowdrop.
courtesy of J. Brice
Cruise News - March 6, 2023
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100 Years of Cunard Captured in Time
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Cunard Line celebrates a century's worth of luxury, magic, history and memories by launching its new Sea Views Exhibition, carefully curated by British photographer and filmmaker Mary McCartney.
The exhibition celebrates two momentous milestones in Cunard's history- the first being that over 100 years ago, Cunard introduced onboard photography to capture the signature moments of their voyages and the second being the centenary of the first ever round the world voyage on Cunard's ship, Laconia. Laconia's 130-day voyage departed on 21 November 1922 and arrived back in New York on 30 March 1923 after calling at 22 ports.
 Boasting images from Cunard's photography archive together with an incredible number of photos submitted by past and present guests of its iconic cruise liners, the Sea Views Exhibition is a culmination of the century's rich history.
Showcasing a selection of never-before-seen imagery featuring everything from Hollywood's most famed to the treasured moments of guests, the snapshots cover the dynamic changes in styles across fashion, food and interior design since the 1920s.
The exhibition features a snapshot of Cunard's most glamorous and esteemed guests, from Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth to Bing Crosby and Nelson Mandela, illustrating some of Cunard's archival gems across the century.
Hundreds of Cunard passengers from all over the world, including America, Australia, Canada, Germany and the UK, submitted over a thousand of their personal highlights aboard Cunard's ships. The images depict a series of fascinating moments from families emigrating to new continents, milestone anniversaries to unexpected guest encounters, telling magical stories from the 1920s to present day.
Peter Fittock, from Thurso Scotland, shared a selection of wonderful images captured by his grandfather, Jasper Harold Fittock, who was a "Pantryman/Steward" onboard the Aquitania and later the Carmania. The photograph featured in the exhibition shows cowboy movie star Tom Mix riding his horse Tony down the gangway, on a trip to England.
Barry Robins, shared a picture of himself and his sister Lynne Robins, aboard the Queen Mary, June of 1964. They were emigrating to the USA along with their mother to be reunited with their father. As siblings they had a wonderful time onboard, prior to arriving in New York and shared a range of fond memories.
Mary McCartney says: "Curating the Sea Views Exhibition for Cunard has been a fulfilling project for me as a photographer and filmmaker. It was a joy to dig deep into the archives and discover never-before-seen photographs that capture the essence of Cunard's signature moments, showcasing the glamour, elegance, and adventures families and friends shared together".
"It was not just about showcasing the history, but also celebrating the millions of travellers who have embarked on unforgettable voyages across the globe. As I went through the archives and read the stories submitted by passengers from all corners of the world, I was struck by the strong sense of community and connection that Cunard has fostered over the years. It was an honour to bring those stories to life through the exhibition." Continues Mary.
Other images Mary McCartney selected to be included in the unique photography exhibition include:
Troops walking on board in Sydney, Cunard's Queen Mary (1940). The Queen Mary was deployed during the Second World War to carry troops to Europe
Nelson Mandela sailed on the Queen Elizabeth 2's 1998 passage between Durban and Cape Town. In the ship's visitor book, he wrote "Travelling on QE2 was an unforgettable honour and a pleasure"
Elizabeth Taylor, who regularly travelled with Cunard and her producer husband Mike Todd.
Harry Lillis Crosby, known to the world as Bing, was a regular on-board Queen Mary. He was often found in the dark room on board the ship chatting to photographers
The first ever Blue Note Jazz themed transatlantic cruise, with President of Blue Note Records, Don Was, on Cunard's Queen Mary 2 (2015) (image is not of Don Was). The image was submitted by former guest Nick Pride
Sir Winston Churchill operating the controls with cigar in hand, with Commodore J.G.P. Bisset on Cunard's Queen Elizabeth (1940s)
Prominent Passengers Phyllis Calvert and husband Peter Murray-Hill, actors, with their daughter, Auriol, facing press photographers on the Queen Mary's boat deck
The centennial 'Sea Views' digital exhibition is available to view on www.Cunard.com/seaviews from 2nd March 2023.
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Carnival Cruise Line Expands Popular Europe Offerings in 2024
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Carnival Cruise Line announced today it will expand its offering of seasonal European sailings in 2024 and opened reservations for a series of 17 cruises that will take guests to some of the world’s most picturesque seaports aboard Carnival Legend. Once the 2024 Europe season is completed, Carnival Legend will mark its return to the U.S. at a new homeport in Tampa, Fla.
“This extensive series for 2024 offers an excellent variety of itinerary lengths and options for our valued guests who want to experience Europe the best way possible: with our amazing crew providing outstanding service along with all the favorite venues aboard a Fun Ship,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Our guests who sail with us in Europe enjoy exploring diverse and spectacular destinations across the continent while simultaneously enjoying the comfort and convenience of having the amenities they know and love available to them on board.”
 Carnival Legend’s European series begins with a 12-day Transatlantic cruise from Baltimore, Md, on April 15, 2024. This sailing will include visits to Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal; Malaga and Valencia, Spain.
From Europe, the ship will operate a wide range of itineraries for guests who want to explore the distinctive beauty and rich culture of the region from three homeports in three different countries: Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Dover (London), United Kingdom. Among the many sensational itineraries to choose from are:
• Eight-Day Mediterranean Sailing departs Barcelona, Spain on May 30, 2024, and visits Malta; Messina (Sicily), Italy; Naples (Capri/Pompeii), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy; and Toulon (Provence), France.
• Nine-Day Western Europe Sailing departs Barcelona, Spain on June 7, 2024, and visits Malaga, Sevilla (Cadiz), and La Coruña, Spain; Lisbon and Leixões (Porto), Portugal; and Le Havre (Paris), France.
• Nine-Day British Isles Sailing departs Dover, UK on June 28, 2024, and visits Holyhead, Wales, UK; Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Liverpool, England; Dublin (Dun Laoghaire) Ireland; and Cork (Cobh), Ireland.
• 12-Day Iceland Sailing departs Dover, UK on July 7, 2024, and visits Dublin (Dun Laoghaire) Ireland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Reykjavik, Iceland; Grundarfjordur, Iceland; Akureyri, Iceland; Seydisfjordur, Iceland; and Invergordon, Scotland.
• 10-Day Greek Isles Sailing departs Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy on Aug. 27, 2024, and visits Mykonos, Greece; Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Athens, Greece; Katakolon, Greece; Messina (Sicily) and Naples (Capri/Pompeii), Italy.
Carnival Legend will sail Europe throughout the summer season and into the fall, departing Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy on Oct. 26, 2024, and visiting Cartagena, Spain; Funchal (Madeira) and Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal before crossing the Atlantic and stopping in Nassau, The Bahamas before arriving at the ship’s new homeport of Tampa, Fla.
The 2,200-guest Carnival Legend features several accommodation options, including 50 suites and more than 630 balcony staterooms. Guests will find many of the signature venues they know and love on board – from Guy’s Burger Joint to the BlueIguana Cantina, the RedFrog and Alchemy bars, as well as WaterWorks Aqua Park and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
In addition, Carnival Glory will sail a 14-day Transatlantic voyage on April 18, 2024, that features several popular European destinations, including Valencia, and Las Palmas (Canary Islands), Spain, before arriving to its new homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla.
Carnival’s 2024 offerings build on the cruise line’s popular European season. Carnival Pride will soon begin 2023’s series of over a dozen European cruises from May through October. The 2023 season features various cruise lengths and itineraries with departures from Dover, UK and Barcelona, Spain. In addition, Transatlantic voyages for Carnival Freedom were also added to the 2023 schedule, with voyages between Port Canaveral, Fla. and Barcelona, Spain set for this fall currently open for sale.
Once she arrives to her new homeport of Tampa, Fla., Carnival Legend will offer six-, seven- and eight-day cruises from her new homeport. Cruise options include a Panama Canal sailing in addition to several Western Caribbean itineraries, which include visits to popular destinations such as Belize, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico as well as Montego Bay, Jamaica and Grand Cayman.
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Natalya Leahy Appointed President of Seabourn
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Seabourn Cruise Line announced the appointment today of Natalya Leahy as the business's new president this week. Leahy, whose seven years with Holland America Group included operational oversight of Seabourn, succeeds Josh Leibowitz who is leaving the brand to pursue new opportunities.
 Leahy was most recently chief operating officer for Holland America Group serving Princess, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Australia and land operations. Prior to joining the cruise industry, she held various leadership roles with Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, supporting iconic brands and new product launches.
As part of a structure to build on the benefit of shared services between Holland America Line and Seabourn, she will report to Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.
"Seabourn has earned a top position in the luxury and expedition cruising space, and Natalya's expertise, background and proven track record in delivering results is ideal to build on that success," Antorcha said. "With her leadership and the introduction later this year of our second purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, I am confident in the future growth of Seabourn."
"It's an honor to join the extraordinary Seabourn team and partners who take personal pride in curating transformative, enriching, one-of-a-kind Seabourn moments," Leahy said. "We have built unmatched luxury experiences at sea that provide life expanding moments for our guests. I am excited to support and work with our trade partners as we continue to surprise and delight our guests in ways they would never imagine."
Leibowitz oversaw the successful return to service of the Seabourn fleet. He also led the expansion into ultra-luxury expedition voyages with the launch of Seabourn Venture, offering guests opportunities to explore remote destinations in every corner of the world. Leibowitz was instrumental in the relaunch of the Seabourn brand with the award-winning "This Is Your Moment" marketing campaign, to focus on active, affluent travel decision makers. Prior to Seabourn, he served for seven years as chief strategy officer for Carnival Corporation.
"Josh's leadership in navigating the pause and return to service proved valuable for Seabourn's future," Antorcha added. "We appreciate his contributions and wish him well. This business has a bright future with the best in all-inclusive, luxury cruising and now expedition voyages. I look forward to seeing Natalya bring her passion and talent to Seabourn's success."
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Holland America Line Introduces New Category of Longer Voyages
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Holland America Line is globally recognized as an expert in longer voyages, and to commemorate its historic 150th Anniversary in 2023 the cruise line is introducing extended Legendary Voyages. These lengthier cruises, which range from 25 to 59 days, combine the ceremony of Holland America Line's Grand Voyages with itineraries that feature a comprehensive collection of ports that enrich the experience in each destination.
To commemorate its historic 150th Anniversary in 2023, Holland America Line is introducing extended Legendary Voyages
 Most of Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to see the world from their doorstep with a convenient domestic flight and easy embarkation. The itineraries are offered on a variety of the line's perfectly sized ships, bringing guests to Australia and New Zealand, the Amazon and South America, South Pacific and Hawaii, Greenland and Iceland, Asia, Alaska and the Arctic Circle.
"As the leader in long itineraries, Holland America Line is excited to continue to connect our deployment and onboard programming to further enrich the guest experience," said Kacy Cole, vice president of marketing and e-commerce, Holland America Line. "The destination-rich itineraries found on Legendary Voyages are carefully crafted to allow guests to linger longer and enjoy the journey as well as the destination. With many departures from North America, this creates yet another way for our guests to see the world from their doorstep."
Highlights of Legendary Voyages:
• Three Legendary Voyages are NEW itineraries for Holland America Line:
The previously announced 28-day "Arctic Circle Solstice" that heads north to the Arctic Circle and features 11 calls in Alaska, including lesser-visited ports like Nome and Homer.
53-day "Majestic Japan" with 21 total ports, 13 calls throughout Japan and overnights at Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe.
28-Day "Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef" that explores 10 ports in five countries, with scenic cruising in the famed Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait, and past the Kumba and Krakatau volcanoes.
• Destination-rich itineraries focus on a singular region, visiting some of the most unique ports while offering guests an in-depth exploration.
• Guests will enjoy the "best of" Grand Voyages on-board programming to further enhance each Legendary Voyage with experiences such as iconic theme parties memorable sailaways and classic cruise activities.
• Shipboard programming is specially curated to share insights into the history and culture of the destinations visited.
• Guests have more time in port to experience the nightlife with overnight stays in marquee ports including Anchorage, Alaska; Hobart, Tasmania; Honolulu, Hawaii; Manaus, Brazil; Moorea, French Polynesia; Papeete, • Tahiti; Reykjavík, Iceland; and Yokohama (Tokyo) and Kobe, Japan.
Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages:
56-Day or 51-day "Tales of the South Pacific" departing Sept. 27 or Oct. 2, 2023, respectively, aboard Volendam. The 56-day is from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, to San Diego, California; the 51-day is roundtrip from San Diego.
34-Day "South Pacific Crossing" departing Oct. 8, 2023, aboard Noordam. From San Diego to Sydney, Australia.
28-Day "Amazon Explorer" departing Feb. 17, 2024, aboard Zaandam. Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
35-Day "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" departing Feb. 17, 2024, aboard Koningsdam. Roundtrip from San Diego.
25-Day "South Pacific Crossing" departing April 6, 2024, aboard Noordam. From Sydney to Vancouver.
28-Day "Arctic Circle Solstice" departing June 9, 2024, aboard Westerdam. Roundtrip from Seattle, Washington.
35-Day "Voyage of the Vikings" departing July 20, 2024, aboard Zuiderdam. Roundtrip from Boston, Massachusetts.
53- or 52-Day "Majestic Japan" departing Sept. 1 or 2, 2024, aboard Westerdam. The 53-day is roundtrip from Seattle; the 52-day is Vancouver to Seattle.
56- or 51-Day "Tales of the South Pacific" departing Sept. 25 or 30, 2024, aboard Zaandam. The 56-day is from Vancouver to San Diego; the 51-day is roundtrip from San Diego.
35-Day "Australia Circumnavigation" departing Nov. 17, 2024, aboard Westerdam. Roundtrip from Sydney.
28-Day "Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef" departing Jan. 5, 2025, aboard Noordam. Roundtrip from Singapore.
27-Day "Amazon Explorer" departing Feb. 8, 2025, aboard Zaandam. Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale.
35-Day "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" departing Feb. 15, 2025, aboard Koningsdam. Roundtrip from San Diego.
29-Day "South Pacific Crossing" departing March 30, 2025, aboard Westerdam. From Sydney to Vancouver.
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Cunard Announces 2025 Winter Program
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Cunard announced their Winter 2025 program this week, offering over 133 voyages, with stops at 159 unique destinations around the globe.
Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, flagship liner Queen Mary 2 and the brand's newest vessel Queen Anne will call at 57 countries, with six maiden calls for the fleet in Alaska, Australia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Japan. Cunard's highly anticipated Queen Anne will be the only ship to offer a full World Voyage in 2025.
“We are thrilled that Queen Anne sails her first World Voyage in 2025,” said Matt Gleaves, VP, Commercial, Cunard NAM.
Cunard also announces Queen Elizabeth's 2024 summer program in Alaska where she will sail ten roundtrip voyages out of Vancouver, ranging from 9 to 11 nights. The ship will visit the immense Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park along with calls at Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and more. She will also make two maiden calls at Misty Fjords and Wrangell.
"We are thrilled that Queen Anne will be taking on the World Voyage in 2025," said Matt Gleaves, Cunard's VP, Commercial Development, North America. "With four ships in our fleet, we have the opportunity to spend more time in specific regions around the globe, and guests will be able to explore destinations in great depth, all with the luxury of sailing on Cunard's new ship."
Queen Anne will set sail on her first-ever World Voyage on January 9, 2025, visiting five continents and stop at more than 30 ports on this 107-night voyage, roundtrip out of Southampton, England. She will offer nine overnight calls in enriching destinations such as Honolulu, Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai, as well as three late evening departures, giving guests time to explore each city to the fullest.
Queen Anne Itinerary Highlights:
• New York to San Francisco, 17 nights (H505)
Departing on January 18, 2025, this segment of her Maiden World Voyage will connect two of the country's most vibrant cities – New York and San Francisco, with plenty of stops along the way to discover warm and welcoming destinations including Aruba, and Guatemala, among others.
• Singapore to Dubai, 13 nights (H508C)
On this voyage, departing March 25, guests can explore the Ancient City of Sigiriya on the island of Sri Lanka, learn about the Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultural influences in Malaysia, and explore the cosmopolitan Dubai, where ancient Arabic culture meets spectacular skyscrapers.
Queen Mary 2 will divide her time between sailing in the Caribbean and Transatlantic Crossings from January through May 2025, with additional voyages in the Mediterranean. Itineraries range from seven to 35 nights and depart from New York, Southampton, and Rome. The liner will offer four overnight calls at Curacao; Funchal, Madeira; Lisbon; and New York, with three late evening departures in Bridgetown, Barbados; Vigo and Malaga, Spain.
Queen Mary 2 Itinerary Highlights:
• Westbound Transatlantic Crossing, 8 nights (M506A)
Departing from Southampton, England, on March 8, 2025, Cunard's signature Transatlantic Crossing offers uninterrupted days at sea to unplug and recharge from today's hectic lifestyle while luxuriating through the waters of the North Atlantic.
• Eastern Caribbean, 13 nights (M506C)
Sailing roundtrip from New York on March 16, 2025, Queen Mary 2 will visit the palm-fringed coast of the Caribbean on this itinerary with destinations such as Barbados, St. Lucia or Curacao, filled with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Queen Victoria will offer eight voyages in South America in early 2025 which can be combined for the 85-night South America Discovery from Hamburg which includes sailing around Cape Horn, the southernmost point of Chile's Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Queen Victoria will offer five overnight calls in Amsterdam, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Callao and five late evening departures.
Queen Victoria Itinerary Highlights:
• Atlantic Coast Adventure, 11 nights (V430)
Sailing roundtrip out of Southampton on December 5, 2024, this voyage through Spain, Gibraltar, and Portugal allows guests to take in the Roman architecture in La Coruna, treasures of Malaga's Christmas market and a traditional egg custard tart in Lisbon.
• Amsterdam, Bruges and Hamburg, 7 nights (V502)
Queen Victoria will visit some of Europe's historic cities during this voyage, roundtrip out of Southampton on January 2, 2025. Guests will adore the canal-linked streets of Hamburg, indulge in sweet Belgian waffles in Bruges, and explore the quirky shops of Rotterdam.
Queen Elizabeth will spend June through September 2024 amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of Alaska with roundtrip voyages out of Vancouver. After a stop in San Francisco, she will offer itineraries in Australia and New Zealand throughout the fall with voyages ranging from two to 38 nights. In February 2025, Queen Elizabeth will sail to Singapore and stay in East Asia through May, with calls at Vietnam, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. Seven overnight port calls are available on Queen Elizabeth including, Hobart, Hong Kong, and Osaka with a whopping 25 late evening departures.
Queen Elizabeth Itinerary Highlights:
• Alaska, 11 nights (Q422)
Roundtrip out of Vancouver on July 11, 2024, guests will take in the breath-taking Glacier Bay, Misty Fjords and Hubbard Glacier, all from the deck of the elegant Queen Elizabeth. Passengers can visit Mendenhall Glacier from Juneau, see Ketchikan's colorful totem poles, or ride Icy Strait Point's zipline, rumored to be the longest in the world.
• San Francisco to Sydney, 25 nights (Q430)
Swaying palm trees, iconic skylines, and stunning mountains fill this 25-night voyage from San Francisco on September 22, 2024. On departure, guests will enjoy a magnificent sail-by of the Golden Gate Bridge, and on arrival in Sydney, the iconic opera house will be in full view. Two overnight calls in this itinerary include Honolulu, and after crossing the International Date Line – Auckland. The voyage will also call in Apia, where the Papapapaitai Falls are not to be missed.
Four Queens Back-to-Back
For adventurous guests who want to remain seeking the utmost in pampering, there are two opportunities to sample all four queens in one journey. The experience starts on Queen Victoria in June 2024 on Queen Victoria where guests will sail the Mediterranean calling at ports in Croatia, Malta, and Italy. After spending a few days in Rome, guests will join Queen Anne to visit Spain and the sun-kissed islands of Sardinia and Majorca before disembarking in Southampton. There, guests will join Queen Mary 2 on a westbound Transatlantic Crossing and fly from New York to Vancouver. Queen Elizabeth will host the final leg of the journey into Alaska. A similar experience can be taken in reverse beginning in Alaska, with an eastbound Crossing, sailing the Norwegian Fjords and then ending in the Mediterranean.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.07 |
+ 2.22% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
74.31 |
|
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.32 |
- 1.09% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What ever became of Cunard's Carpathia that became famous for rescuing the survivors of Titanic?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which cruise ship was the first to offer large picture windows for INSIDE cabins?
Answer - Voyager of the Seas has large picture windows overlooking the atrium of their ship.
courtesy of Bill Thompson, Tampa, FL
Cruise News - February 27, 2023
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Giada De Laurentiis Named Godmother of Oceania Cruises' New Ship Vista
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Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, has named celebrated Italian-American chef, author, restaurateur and Emmy Award-winning food personality Giada De Laurentiis as godmother of its newest ship Vista, debuting May 2023. Multiple Grammy and Emmy Award-winning singer, pianist and actor Harry Connick Jr. will appear alongside De Laurentiis at the star-studded christening and naming ceremony, taking place on May 8 in Valletta, Malta.
 Connick will perform an exclusive concert for VIP guests at the christening event in Valletta during Vista's seven-night roundtrip voyage from Rome, Italy. There, Godmother De Laurentiis will officiate the ceremonial breaking of a Champagne bottle on the ship's bow to bestow good luck over the vessel and to all guests and crew who sail on the ship.
Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, said, "We are thrilled that Giada and Harry are joining us to welcome Vista, our first new ship in more than a decade. Harry's laid-back, classic style and impressive back catalog will provide the perfect soundtrack to an important evening in our 20-year history.
"As the world's leading culinary-focused cruise line, bringing Giada into the Oceania Cruises family was an easy decision. Her casual yet sophisticated style and devout love of quality cuisine are the perfect recipe for Vista. She truly personifies our first Allura Class ship and we could not be more delighted that she has agreed to be godmother of Vista." As godmother, De Laurentiis will create two signature dishes to be served on board Vista. Guests will be able to enjoy the inspired new creations in Toscana, Oceania Cruises' authentic Italian specialty restaurant evolved from rich family traditions, as well as The Grand Dining Room, the luxurious grand dame of the line's culinary offering on board its small, luxurious ships.
"Working with Frank and the Oceania Cruises team on the christening of Vista and having the honor of officiating as godmother is a dream come true, especially as she sets sail on her christening voyage from my birthplace of Rome," said De Laurentiis. "Cooking authentic Italian fare is my biggest passion in life. I cannot wait to savor the different flavors and explore the myriad dining venues on board Vista, a ship that will provide unforgettable culinary experiences for decades to come."
Connick, who has sold more than 28 million albums worldwide, commented, "I am delighted to be a part of this special occasion; bringing music and song to such an important moment in Oceania Cruises' story is an honor. Performing against the backdrop of the beautiful city of Valletta, alongside this elegant new ship, will be a privilege to remember for years to come."
Providing a stylish new way of seeing the world and featuring all-veranda accommodations, Vista's stunning interiors and elegant lines will reflect a fresh new perspective through organic elements inspired by the land and sea.
As Oceania Cruises' first new ship in more than ten years, the debut of the 1,200-guest Vista is highly anticipated by loyal and new guests alike, with her inaugural summer season in the Mediterranean already sold out. In September, Vista will sail to Canada and New England before heading south for a series of winter itineraries exploring Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
Vista's 2024 summer season will see her sail a series of Grand Voyages in the eastern Mediterranean, Aegean and Adriatic Seas, visiting an intriguing array of iconic cities and smaller boutique ports throughout Italy, Turkey, Greece and the Holy Lands. A full overview of Vista's 2023 and 2024 itineraries can be found at OceaniaCruises.com.
Vista, and her sister ship Allura, which is set to debut in May 2025, will feature several unique firsts in the realms of dining, accommodation and guest experience. Building on Oceania Cruises' exemplary culinary reputation of serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea, Vista offers an inventive new mixology program, plus new and unique culinary concepts on board. These include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes with a hint of indulgence; The Bakery at Baristas, serving tempting freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant, Ember.
Ember is an upscale yet relaxed space where guests can enjoy an authentically rich American dining experience. Drawing on inspiration from great chefs such as Oceania Cruises' own Executive Culinary Director Jacques Pépin, Ember seamlessly blends the contemporary fresh vibrance of renowned culinary capitals such as Napa and Sonoma with the warmth and richness of the revitalized food and beverage scene of America's heartland.
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Seabourn Announces 2024-2025 Expedition Voyages in the South Pacific, Arctic, Antarctica
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Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, has unveiled a program of new exciting expedition voyages for summer 2024 and winter/spring 2025 on its two new purpose-built expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit. Both ships will explore remote corners of the globe, from the South Pacific and Antarctica to the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland and more. The program also includes the line's first visit to the Kimberley region in northern Australia, where Seabourn Pursuit will travel between June and August 2024.
 In addition to the Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit will visit Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and sail to the South Pacific from Chile to Melanesia between March and October 2024. Meanwhile, sister ship Seabourn Venture returns for another season in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Greenland, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic. Both ships will sail to the "The Great White Continent" at the end of 2024 and early 2025. All of the new 2024 and 2025 expedition voyages are now on sale, with full itinerary details available at www.seabourn.com.
"These new expeditions are going to be thrilling and offer so many opportunities for guests to discover the natural and cultural wonders found in some of the farthest corners of the planet, including our first-ever visit to the Kimberley in Australia," said Robin West, Vice President and General Manager of Expeditions. "Best of all, guests will be experiencing everything in the company of Expedition Team members who will bring the wonders of each destination to life. We're looking forward to many 'Seabourn Moments' with our guests, filled with thoughtful experiences for reconnection, discovery and adventure."
Seabourn Pursuit sails to the Kimberley and South Pacific
The Kimberley
With ancient, otherworldly landscapes, wildlife from short-eared rock-wallabies to flying foxes, and Aboriginal culture that traces back some 50,000 years, the Kimberley is an experience all its own in northernmost Western Australia. With the Expedition Team geared to lead Zodiac rides to Horizontal Waterfalls and guided hikes to surreal sandstone escarpments, spectacular gorges, and visits with the Traditional Landowners to see primeval caves tagged with rock art, Seabourn Pursuit will offer six 10-day voyages to the region between Broome and Darwin in June, July and August 2024.
Highlights include:
• Immersion in the remote Indonesian island of Matakus, with sandy beach access to swimming and snorkeling above coral in the Timor Sea.
• Visits to incredibly remote settings such as the Bungle Bungles, El Questro National Park, and the Ord River.
• Exploration of King George Falls, dual waterfalls and the highest in Western Australia, and miles-long Zodiac rides through rivers and sandstone gorges crowded with incredible geological formations.
• Talbot Bay, offering once-in-a-lifetime viewing of the Horizontal Waterfalls, while incredible "boab" trees will provide backdrops for photography and local stories.
• Helicopter viewing of the Hunter River and the Kimberley en route to the triple falls of Mitchell Plateau.
• Montgomery Reef, an ancient and biologically rich reef formed some 1.8 billion years ago and recognized today as one of the most significant geological marine environments in the Kimberley.
Papua New Guinea & West Papua
Seabourn Pursuit will operate a series of 15-day voyages to the Papua New Guinea and West Papua in May and June and again in August and September 2024, with combination voyages up to 35 days also available. Some of the world's most incredible snorkeling and diving wait at protected reefs off the mainland and islands surrounding Papua New Guinea and West Papua.
Guests will be welcomed warmly ashore at the village of Watam near the Ramu River, where traditional homes constructed of sago palm line the banks; front row seats for the sacred Baining Fire Dance at Rabaul under an active volcano on the island of New Britain; and mixing with locals in the matrilineal society of the Trobriand Islands, where yams are a form of currency. The itinerary also includes a rare visit to Agats, built on stilts amid a river that swells with the rising tide, as well as exploration of the Misool, Wayag, and Gam Islands, part of Raja Ampat ("Four Kings") of Indonesia, characterized by limestone rock formations called karsts that rise from the sea, and some of the most bio-diverse tropical waters on the planet.
The South Pacific from Chile to Melanesia
In March and April and again in September and October 2024, Seabourn Pursuit will sail between the islands of the South Pacific and the coast of Chile via a series of voyages of 14, 17, and 20 days, with combination voyages of up to 37 days also available.
Voyage itineraries will offer guests a wealth of opportunities for adventure, such as exploring the remote Juan Fernandez Archipelago off the coast of Chile, where dramatic and rocky coastlines harbor pink-footed shearwaters and fur seals; spending time at Easter Island with travel to the quarry where volcanic rock was excavated to carve the haunting moai that look longingly from the island's perimeter; visiting the volcanic islands of the Pitcairn group across hundreds of miles of ocean; visiting Marae Taputapuatea on Ra'iatea Island in French Polynesia, an incredible destination once considered the most important religious site in the region; and arriving ashore at the remote Yasawa Islands of Fiji to explore the incredible limestone formations of the Sawa-I-Lau Caves. Mysterious Ambrym Island and Pentecost Island of Vanuatu are also on itineraries.
Seabourn Venture heads north to the Arctic
The United Kingdom & Ireland
Seabourn Venture will offer three 14-day voyages between Greenwich (London) and Leith (Edinburgh) in April and May 2024, with two different itineraries and availability for combination voyages up to 28 days.
See world-renowned Tresco, home to the subtropical Abbey Gardens; Iona, where St. Columba established an Abbey in the year 563, with a Zodiac cruise to Staffa to look into naturally acoustic Fingal's Cave; and explore remote St. Kilda, a fascinating double UNESCO World Heritage Site on the edge of the world. Other highlights include the ancient archaeological treasures of Neolithic sites on the Orkney Islands; explorations of the vast seabird colonies of Copinsay by Zodiac and the rugged landscapes of tiny Lochinver in the Scottish Highlands by foot; and visits to Cape Clear and Schull on the rugged coast of West Cork, the historic architecture of ancient Kinsale, and the charming seaport town of Plymouth, abundant with traditional architecture, local gin production, and beautiful coastal nature.
Norway, Greenland, Iceland & the Canadian Arctic
Guests will experience unexpected discoveries as Seabourn Venture sails through Norway, Greenland, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic from June through September 2024. Expedition options include a series of 11- and 12-day Svalbard itineraries, a 15-day voyage from Svalbard to Greenland to Iceland, an 11-day circumnavigation of Iceland, and 11 to 15-day voyages in Iceland and Greenland before closing out Summer 2024 with a 14-day voyage from West Greenland to St. John's, Newfoundland. Combination voyages of 28 days will also be available.
Savor a safari-like experience in search of the majestic polar bear; the golden light of the midnight sun; the geological wonderland of Iceland teeming with volcanic features and great wildlife and cultural experiences; and a walk around Greenland's capital, Nuuk, where the National Museum preserves the famed Uummannaq mummies. Explorations via Zodiac include the cliffs and seabird colonies of Bear Island, Bjørnøya; the mouth of the UNESCO site Ilulissat Icefjord with an opportunity to kayak among the largest icebergs in the northern hemisphere; and the populous seabird colonies of Heimaey Iceland, known for its fascinating geological history. Destinations of discovery also include the world's longest and most beautiful fjord system in remote East Greenland, the waterways of Prins ChristianSund in Southern Greenland, and the Viking farm of Brattahlið where Leif Eriksson departed to discover Vinland en route to unknown North America.
Antarctica
Both expedition vessels will spend time at the bottom of the world, with Seabourn Pursuit offering the Seabourn Antarctic Experience on a 21-day voyage starting in February 2024, and then on 11 voyages of 11, 13, or 21 days from October 2024 through mid-March 2025. Seabourn Venture will also be bound far south following its exploration of the Arctic with nine voyages of 11, 13, or 21 days featuring the Seabourn Antarctic Experience from November 2024 to March 2025.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Announces 2023 Meet the Winemakers Series
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today revealed the exciting lineup of its popular Meet the Winemaker series, the one-of-a-kind program featuring renowned winemakers and culinary experts bringing their knowledge and expertise to an intimate group of guests on board the Company’s newest ships.
The Meet the Winemaker series provides wine enthusiasts and foodies of all skill levels with an exclusive opportunity to engage with winemakers and other connoisseurs through various enriching seminars and activities. The immersive programming offers guests intimate wine tastings, wine-paired dinners, interactive culinary demonstrations and meet-and-greets on board. Guests can also purchase wines on board that are otherwise only available by visiting the wineries directly.
 “Our Meet the Winemaker series is back and better than ever,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Every year we aim to elevate this exclusive experience and I believe we’ve done just that as we enter the program’s seventh year with an impressive guest lineup. These unique sailings offer a rare opportunity to get one-on-one exposure to esteemed winemakers and their collection of wines, all while visiting multiple destinations and enjoying an unforgettable vacation aboard our innovative fleet.”
A new and noteworthy addition to this year’s series includes special guest Emma Walker. Walker, a Master Blender at Johnnie Walker, the highest rank in whisky craftsmanship, has spent over a decade perfecting whisky production, maturation, and blending processes. She leads the Johnnie Walker Whisky Specialist team based in Menstrie, Scotland, where she has access to more than ten million casks of maturing Scotch whisky. She will join the Sept. 17, 2023 sailing on NCL’s award-winning new ship, Norwegian Prima, in Northern Europe for NCL’s first-ever Johnnie Walker cruise where guests can learn the history of the brand and savor the wide range of aged whiskeys.
Also notable to the program is Chef Ashley Breneman, Executive Chef at Certified Angus Beef, one of the best beef brands in the country and is featured across the NCL fleet in its specialty restaurant, Cagney’s. Breneman, who began her career studying at Le Cordon Bleu culinary institute and has worked for numerous celebrity chefs, including Gordon Ramsay on the hit show “Master Chef,” will join returning winemaker Antonio Hidalgo for the July 9, 2023 sailing aboard Norwegian Encore to Alaska to add a culinary component to the Meet the Winemaker experience.
Fourth-generation winemaker Miguel Torres, who pioneered planting Cabernet Sauvignon in Spain, creating ‘Mas la Plana’ in 1970, will also make his debut to the culinary program aboard Norwegian Encore’s April 9, 2023 Eastern Caribbean voyage. The Miguel Torres Chile family winery has a presence in over 100 countries and has established itself over the past 30 years as one of the main producers of high-quality wines and is committed to environmental and social responsibility.
Returning fan-favorite hosts include celebrity chef Aaron Sanchez; world-class winemaker and member of the historic fashion house, Salvatore Ferragamo; Napa Valley icon Michael Mondavi of the Michael Mondavi Family Estate; and “The Drinks Business” Master Winemaker of the Year 2023 recipient Gérard Bertrand, among others.
The complete 2023 Meet the Winemaker series lineup includes:
April 2, 2023 – Norwegian Bliss, Mexican Riviera: Featuring award-winning celebrity chef and TV personality Aaron Sanchez
April 9, 2023 – Norwegian Encore, Eastern Caribbean: Featuring fourth-generation winemaker Miguel Torres
April 22, 2023* – Norwegian Bliss, Alaska: Featuring world-class winemaker Salvatore Ferragamo of The Il Borro estate in Tuscany, Italy, producing world-class wines
June 10, 2023* – Norwegian Bliss, Alaska: Featuring Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite Wine Dinner Hosted by Special Guest: Diane Flamand
July 9, 2023* – Norwegian Encore, Alaska: Featuring Antonio Hidalgo of the globally recognized family-owned Spanish Sherry house, Bodegas Hidalgo La Gitana, and Certified Angus Beef Executive Chef Ashley Breneman
Sept. 17, 2023 – Norwegian Prima, Northern Europe: Meet the Master Blender, Emma Walker of Johnnie Walker
Oct. 22, 2023 – Norwegian Escape, Bermuda: Featuring Michael Mondavi of the Michael Mondavi Family Estate
Oct. 28, 2023 – Norwegian Joy, Western Caribbean: Featuring Gérard Bertrand, “The Drinks Business” Master Winemaker of the Year 2023 recipient
Oct. 29, 2023 – Norwegian Escape, Bermuda: Featuring Randy Ullom from the Kendall-Jackson family
*Guests will also have the opportunity to partake in a special wine-paired dinner featuring Certified Angus Beef.
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P&O Cruises announces the return of ship visits in 2023
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P&O Cruises has today announced more than 1,000 places for travel agents to experience ship visits in 2023.
 The new ship visits programme, which will take place between April and October 2023 in Southampton, will include time on board P&O Cruises newest ships, Arvia and Iona, as well as Britannia, Ventura, Aurora and Arcadia.
The ship visits will enable agents to experience everything the ship has to offer, including a tour of the cabins, entertainment venues, dining, as well as a threecourse meal in one of the restaurants on board.
P&O Cruises director of sales, Ruth Venn said: “We could not be more excited to bring back ship visits for travel agents this year. With more than 1,000 spaces available, including on our newest ship, Arvia, it is the perfect opportunity for agents to experience our ships for themselves and everything that’s included in the cost of a P&O Cruises holiday.”
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
10.83 |
- 4.07% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
72.04 |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.50 |
- 6.41% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which cruise ship was the first to offer large picture windows for INSIDE cabins?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
What was the name of the cruise ship that caught fire during a Christmas cruise in 1963 and sank six days later?
Answer - LAKONIA of Greek Lines on a cruise from Southampton, UK.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - February 20, 2023
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Spring Flowers, Summer Festivals and Royal Princess Debut Highlight Princess Cruises' 2024 Japan Season
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The lure of Japan is calling with its ancient temples, cherry blossoms, modern cityscapes and vibrant cuisine with the newly released 2024 Japan cruise season on sale now from Princess Cruises. New for 2024, Royal Princess makes her Japan debut and marks the first Royal-Class ship to sail in the region. The series of cruises offers many opportunities to view the magnificent spring flowers, as well as four breathtaking summer festivals.
 Royal Princess sails a new Japan & North Pacific Crossing, calling to the northern Tohoku and Hokkaido regions during the magnificent cherry blossom season with the option to combine with the cruise line's popular Voyage of the Glaciers cruise to witness the majestic glaciers of Alaska. Guests can opt to disembark in Anchorage (Whittier) for a 15-day voyage or continue to Vancouver, B.C. for a 22-day cruise. The cruise departs Tokyo (Yokohama) on April 27, 2024.
"Japan has been a popular homeport and destination experience for Princess guests for many years and we're thrilled to offer such a culturally-rich season of cruises in this region for the 2024 season," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.
Japan-built Diamond Princess returns to Japan for a March through August 2024 season, sailing roundtrip from Tokyo (Yokohama), calling to 35 destinations in three countries on 31 unique itineraries and 36 departures, ranging from seven to 23 days.
Diamond Princess kicks off the season with a series of four 10-day Spring Flowers voyages, calling at all four of Japan's main islands and following the predicted blooming season as it moves from south to north.
The Japan festival season reaches its peak in the summer months, and in 2024 Diamond Princess offers guests the opportunity to experience the following festivals with late-night stays in each port:
• Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aug 2 and Aug 7) which features Nebuta float figures accompanied by traditional music, many vibrant dancers and audience participation, all within easy walking distance from the port.
• Kochi Yosakoi Dance Festival (Aug 12), one of Japan's 10 largest festivals, featuring teams of dancers with colorful costumes and unique performances.
• Tokushima Awa Odori Dance Festival (Aug 13), one of the most famous summer dance festivals that dates back to the 1500s and features dancers performing throughout the city well into the night highlighted by the famous "Fool's Dance."
• Kumano Fireworks Festival (Aug 17), a display of over 10,000 fireworks visible from the decks of Diamond Princess.
Additionally, Diamond Princess will sail on nine-day Southern Islands voyages that call to two Okinawan ports and two Taiwan ports; nine-day and 10-day Sea of Japan voyages that will feature ports along the historic Kitamaebune trading route; 10-day Hokkaido voyages that will visit Otaru (for Sapporo), Hakodate and Kushiro; and the popular 10-day Japan Explorer voyages that will call to some of the country's most iconic destinations like Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), Osaka or Kobe (for Kyoto), Hiroshima, and more.
The 2024 Japan program also features access to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mount Fuji (from Shimizu), Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (from Kobe or Osaka), Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area (from Kobe or Osaka), Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama (from Kanazawa or Toyama), the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and the newly inscribed Iriomote Island (from Ishigaki) and Jomon Prehistoric Sites (from Aomori or Hakodate).
Guests only unpack once to enjoy and explore all the sights ashore, while onboard Princess delivers the ultimate in effortless, personalized cruising featuring world-class dining, award-winning entertainment, casinos, pools, fitness centers and spas, all elevated by exclusive Princess MedallionClass service.
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Viking Expedition Team Publishes First Scientific Paper From Inaugural Antarctic Season
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Viking) today announced its Viking Expedition Team has published the company's first scientific paper, following observations of the rarely encountered scyphozoan Stygiomedusa gigantea, commonly known as the giant phantom jellyfish. The encounters took place during submersible dives in the coastal waters of the Antarctic Peninsula in early 2022. Despite reaching up to 30 feet (10 meters) in length, only 126 encounters with the giant phantom jellyfish have ever been recorded since the species was first described in 1910. During Viking's inaugural season in Antarctica in 2022, direct observations of the giant phantom jellyfish were made three times from submersibles deployed from Viking's expedition vessel, the Viking Octantis, and documented through stills and video photography.
 Authored by two of Viking's Chief Scientists with contributions from the submersible teams, the scientific paper describes for the first time how personal submersibles, such as those on the Viking Octantis and her identical sister ship, the Viking Polaris, can be vessels of opportunity for biological research in polar regions and allow the science community to access under-explored waters. With citizen science activities being popular among expedition guests, the paper also notes the potential to gather guest-derived data from submersible dives. Lead author, Dr. Daniel Moore, noted "It is extraordinary that we know so little about such large marine creatures as the giant phantom jellyfish, however now we have the means to make regular observations at greater depths than previously possible, which provides an exciting opportunity for discovery."
Published in Polar Research, the scientific journal of the Norwegian Polar Institute, the article can be read here: http://dx.doi.org/10.33265/polar.v42.8873.
"In creating 'the thinking person's expedition,' it was our intention that every voyage should provide opportunities for scientific discovery," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "At the core of Viking Expeditions is the goal to do meaningful scientific work. After just one full season in service, we are pleased that our expedition vessels and scientists have already contributed to research that might not have been possible otherwise, and we look forward to providing critical research opportunities on future voyages."
Viking Expedition Team & Scientific Partners
Viking has created the world's leading scientific enrichment environment in an expedition setting with the help of partnerships with esteemed academic institutions. During each expedition, visiting researchers from partner institutions are part of the 36-person Viking Expedition Team. This diverse group of experts lead guests through meaningful scientific work, provide guiding and interpretation during shore excursions and deliver world-class lectures.
"The Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris are re-imagining what a research 'ship of opportunity' can be," said Dr. Damon Stanwell-Smith, Head of Science and Sustainability at Viking. "During each voyage, our guests participate in real, significant science. Our scientific approach centers on having the platform to explore with the personnel to interpret what is found, and we believe this is the first of many scientific papers that will result from research conducted on board Viking expedition vessels."
In April 2022, Viking announced a strengthening of its lead partnership with the University of Cambridge, establishing a new Professorship aimed at advancing research in the field of polar environmental science. The Viking Polar Marine Geoscience Fund endows the University of Cambridge's Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI) with its first-ever fully funded professorship—the Viking Chair of Polar Marine Geoscience. This new post enhances the scientific leadership at the Institute and enables the development of new lines of research into the behavior of polar environments, including polar ice sheets, sea ice and ocean circulation.
The research fund builds on Viking's existing partnership with Cambridge University's SPRI, which played a significant role in developing the scientific enrichment program for Viking Expeditions. Specialists from the Institute were also consulted in the development of The Science Lab on Viking's expedition vessels; the 380-square-foot lab is comprehensively appointed with wet and dry laboratory facilities and supports a broad range of research. Julian Dowdeswell, Professor of Physical Geography at the University of Cambridge, and former director of SPRI, serves as the Chair of the Viking Research Advisory Group, a consortium of scientific leaders from Viking's partner institutions who have been actively involved in overseeing the field research being undertaken on board.
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Holland America Line Extends Celebrity Chef 'Culinary Cruises' to 2023
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Foodies looking to learn tips, tricks and techniques from some of the world's most celebrated chefs can set sail on a Holland America Line "Culinary Cruise" with a member from the line's Culinary Council. With the extension of the program into 2023, the celebrity chefs will share their expertise and kitchen secrets on select voyages, inviting guests to explore their mutual passion for gastronomy.
Celebrity chefs will share their expertise and gastronomic secrets with guests on select voyages
 Each "Culinary Cruise" will feature live cooking demonstrations led by the chefs, and guests will be able to bring home recipes from the presentations, learn more about the chefs at a coffee chat and dine at an intimate reservation-only dinner at Pinnacle Grill, Rudi's Sel de Mer or Nami Sushi, depending on the chef. Culinary Council chef signature dishes also will be highlighted on various restaurant menus during the cruises.
"Our Culinary Cruises have proven to be popular with our guests who appreciate having access to these amazing chefs, and we're excited to have our Culinary Council members back on board in 2023," said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and guest services, Holland America Line. "We strive to cultivate unique experiences for our guests, and to learn from a renowned chocolatier or the world's foremost sushi master is something we hope they will always remember."
Holland America Line's Culinary Council comprises a collection of elite chefs who bring a global influence to the dining experience across the fleet. In addition to their featured recipes in the various on-board venues, one evening in the Dining Room on every cruise has a special menu offering a collection of dishes from the Culinary Council members.
2023 CULINARY CRUISES:
Ethan Stowell
Koningsdam, 35-day Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas, Feb. 18 – March 25, 2023, roundtrip from San Diego, California.
Stowell incorporates the flavors of the Pacific Northwest on ships sailing in that region, using fresh, sustainably sourced Alaska seafood. His fare also is featured at New York Pizza and Lido Market across the fleet. Stowell is founder and CEO of ESR with an impressive roster of highly acclaimed restaurants. He was named one of the Best New Chefs in America by Food & Wine magazine and one of the Best New Chef All-Stars.
David Burke
Eurodam, 20-day Panama Canal, April 9-29, 2023, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Seattle, Washington.
Burke enhances the menu at Pinnacle Grill, adding contemporary flavors and signature recipes. He recently opened five new restaurants, including Orchard Park by David Burke. During the pandemic, Burke's #FeedtheHeroes program cooked and delivered 100,000 meals to frontline workers and charities. He has been featured on "Iron Chef America" and "Top Chef Masters."
Jacques Torres
Zaandam, 11-day The Atlantic Coast, April 18-29, 2023, from Fort Lauderdale to Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
In addition to the cooking demo, exclusive dinner and coffee chat, Torres will host Holland America Line's famous Chocolate Surprise parade following dinner on one night of the cruise for all guests.
A French-trained master chef and artisan chocolatier, Torres guides chocolate desserts as well as the Chocolate Surprise Dessert Parade on board. After rising to executive pastry chef at New York's legendary Le Cirque, he opened a chocolate factory and retail stores throughout New York. The James Beard Award winner is co-host and head judge on the Netflix culinary show "Nailed It" with Nicole Byer.
Andy Matsuda
Nieuw Amsterdam, 14-day Great Alaskan Explorer, May 7-21, 2023, roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
The Japanese-born Matsuda leads the sushi offerings at Nami Sushi, Tamarind and Lido Market. At Matsuda's Sushi Chef Institute in Los Angeles, California, he teaches aspiring chefs and professionals about sushi and Japanese cuisine. Matsuda is at the forefront of sushi trends and techniques.
Rudi Sodamin
Nieuw Statendam, 14-Day Northern Isles, June 18 — July 2, 2023, roundtrip from Copenhagen, Denmark.
Austrian-born Sodamin oversees all aspects of Holland America Line's award-winning shipboard dining. Rudi's Sel de Mer is his namesake French seafood brasserie on board. His latest culinary masterpiece is an art table book called "Food Faces" that features more than 150 images of edible creations.
All events are complimentary excluding the specialty dinner. Each chef will be aboard their designated "Culinary Cruise" for four to 14 days.
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Royal Caribbean Brings Ultimate Adventures to Short Caribbean Getaways in 2024-25
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Weekend and midweek getaways just got bolder. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the lineup of short Caribbean cruises,featuring eight action-packed ships sailing to tropical, vibrant destinations that make for the ultimate short escapes in 2024-2025. Families, friends and vacationers alike can set their sights on making the most of their vacation time on a variety of ships, including Allure of the Seas, the first Oasis Class ship to sail 3- to 4-night cruises, will extend its short Caribbean season homeporting from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Mariner of the Seas, sets sail from the cruise line’s new, net-zero terminal in Galveston, Texas, for the first time; and four more amplified ships with new and signature experiences on board, cruising from four different cities in Florida, Texas and California. The short Caribbean cruises in 2024-2025 are now open for bookings on Royal Caribbean’s website.
 Vacationers will have a wide range of sun-soaked destinations to choose from, including Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas and Labadee, Haiti. From 13 next-level waterslides in Thrill Waterpark to the new adults-only oasis Hideaway Beach opening in 2023, vacationers will find adrenaline-pumping thrills and ways to chill on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Labadee, located along the northern coast of Haiti, is a slice of paradise with five stunning shorelines and beautiful mountain backdrops. Experiences range from taking in once-in-a-lifetime views on Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, the world’s longest overwater zipline, kicking back on white sand beaches and exploring rich culture while meeting local crafters and artisans.
Families and travelers of all ages can have their pick of one-of-a-kind vacations that feature stops at idyllic locales in the Eastern and Western Caribbean including destinations like Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Roatan, Honduras; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; and more.
Year-Round 2024-2025 Short Getaways Highlights
Allure of the Seas – Sailing from Orlando (Port Canaveral) and Miami, Florida
Ushering in the first year-round season of 3- to 4-night sailings on an Oasis Class ship, the class known today as the ultimate family vacation, Allure will sail to The Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay from Orlando until July 2023 and then will settle in Miami for the remainder of the year. Everyone in the family can make memories on board with a lineup of adventures, from a nine-story-high zip line and twin FlowRider surf simulators to ice skating as well as showstopping entertainment like theatrical hit Mamma Mia! and original shows across four stages – air, ice, water and theater. To refuel between adventures, there are 30-plus restaurants, bars and lounges, including the new-to-Allure Wipeout Cafe featuring El Loco Fresh that serves up grab-and-go Mexican delights like made-to-order quesadillas, tacos, nachos and more. There’s more in store on shore with stunning destinations in Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, where guests will find more ways to chill beachside or take on adrenaline-pumping thrills.
Independence of the Seas – Sailing from Miami
This amplified ship reimagined experiences for everyone includes restaurants like Fish & Ships, a poolside eatery; The Perfect Storm, a duo of racing waterslides; glow-in-the-dark laser tag and more. Independence will sail 5-night Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay cruises, and 4-night Eastern Caribbean sailings that visit Labadee, Haiti, where thrill-seekers looking for a jolt of adrenaline can jump on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster or a spot on the white sand beach to kick back.
Mariner of the Seas – Sailing from Galveston, Texas
For the first time, the amplified ship that changed short Caribbean getaways will sail from Royal Caribbean’s new $125 million cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, the world’s first LEED Zero Energy facility, generating 100% of the energy it needs through onsite solar panels. Mariner’s 4- and 5-night escapes will visit tropical and vibrant destinations like Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. On board, vacationers will find more ways to stay, play and dine with amped-up experiences like The Perfect Storm, a thrilling pair of three-story-high waterslides; The Bamboo Room, the cruise line’s first Polynesian-inspired, tiki-chic bar; glow-in-the-dark laser tag; and more.
Navigator of the Seas – Sailing from Los Angeles
Families and travelers of all ages looking to make the most of short getaways on the West Coast will find plenty to explore across Navigator’s $115 million series of experiences, including a reimagined resort-style poolscape with the lively, three-level poolside bar The Lime & Coconut; The Blaster, the longest aqua coaster at sea; To Dry For, the first standalone blow-dry bar; and more. Vacationers can have their pick of 3-, 4- or 7-night cruises to Catalina Island, California, and Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada and Mazatlan, Mexico.
Seasonal 2024-2025 Short Cruise Highlights
Enchantment of the Seas – Sailing from Tampa, Florida
Vacationers looking for winter getaways can choose 4- or 5-night cruises to visit Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico on Enchantment. It’s the ideal ship for an intimate vacation experience that makes for plenty of quality time together and adventures to match every family member’s preference. In the heart of summer, travelers can opt for 7-night adventures that head to Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel and Costa Maya; and Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas.
Grandeur of the Seas – Sailing from Tampa and Fort Lauderdale
Grandeur will continue sailing from Tampa through the summer and set sail on 4- and 5-night escapes to The Bahamas, including destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and to the picturesque shores of Cozumel, Mexico. The winter brings a new adventure to choose from including 5-night vacations to tropical destinations Labadee and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Liberty of the Seas – Sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Following a summer in the Big Apple, Liberty will return to Fort Lauderdale for the winter season to sail alternating 3- and 4-night getaways to The Bahamas, including Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau featured on every cruise.
Voyager of the Seas – Sailing from Orlando (Port Canaveral)
Royal Caribbean’s amplified ship, Voyager, welcomes vacationers to enjoy amped-up experiences with more ways to play, including two high-speed waterslides at The Perfect Storm, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, the FlowRider surf simulator, the adults-only Solarium and more. Voyager will sail 4- and 5-night winter getaways on a varied lineup of Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises to The Bahamas, including Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau; Cozumel; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and Labadee.
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Costa Group and Proman Join Forces Towards Decarbonisation of the Cruise Industry
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Costa Group, part of Carnival Corporation and Europe's leading cruise operator with its two brands Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises, and the leading methanol producer, Proman, have signed an MOU to drive further the implementation of methanol as a marine fuel for the cruise industry.
 The partnership aims to accelerate the energy transition and decarbonisation of the existing fleet by enhancing the supply of sustainable methanol, paving the way for the retrofitting of existing vessels to operate on clean fuel, as well as investment in further methanol-fueled new builds.
Today's MOU reaffirms methanol's potential to play a key role in the ongoing reduction of GHG emissions of the cruise sector and other shipping segments. It is a cleaner-burning fuel which virtually eliminates airborne pollutants such as particulate matter and sulphur oxides and is widely available and increasingly produced via lower-carbon, biogenic or hydrogen-based pathways. When used in fuel cells, methanol has the potential to allow for lifecycle zero emissions in the near future.
Methanol is emerging as a leading alternative fuel to meet GHG reduction goals due to its easy-to-handle properties, making it attractive for both new builds and for refitting existing ships. As one of the most widely traded chemical commodities, the infrastructure for ship supply could be adapted from existing infrastructure. All forms of methanol, whether natural-gas based, low-carbon or renewable, can be blended regardless of production pathways. It therefore enables a reliable transition pathway from today to fully GHG neutral cruise ships in near future.
"The technology to retrofit a vessel to accept methanol as a fuel is available today. Our methanol products can facilitate the transition to low carbon intensity fuels. Methanol-powered vessels have a proven track record of reducing and eliminating major greenhouse gas emissions, delivering immediate air quality improvements around major ports and shipping lanes. We are excited to bring our expertise along the full methanol value chain to help deliver on Costa Group's bold ambitions" - said Tim Cornelius, Proman's Managing Director of Corporate Development.
Over the years, Costa Group has been leading sustainable innovation in the global cruise industry by steadily pioneering advanced technologies on board its new and existing ships. The company was the first to introduce liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion for emission reduction with four ships already in service in the Costa Group fleet. The majority of Costa Group ships are equipped with shore power capabilities to be zero emissions in ports where the technology is available, and the Company has also performed the first tests on biofuels. By this and the likes of today's partnership with Proman, Costa Group has proven that fuel transition in the marine industry is possible by strong industry collaboration and shared visions for a sustainable future.
"We are reducing the carbon footprint of our fleet while at port and at sea, investing in advanced environmental technologies and partnering with companies such as Proman who share a passion for sustainable energy transition. By enabling cruise ships to use methanol as a propulsion fuel, Costa follows the ambition to take the next big step towards GHG neutral operations of our fleet by 2050" - said Dr. Christoph Schladoer, VP Decarbonisation Costa Group.
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Holland America Line Launches a Poster Design Contest to Commemorate its 150th Anniversary
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Holland America Line — the cruise line synonymous with having iconic advertorial posters back in the golden age of cruising — is asking fans to get creative and design a unique brand poster commemorating its 150th Anniversary. The premium cruise line is celebrating its sesquicentennial birthday April 18, 2023, and the prize for designing the winning poster is a seven-day Alaska cruise for two in a balcony stateroom.
 Holland America Line is asking fans to get creative and design a unique poster commemorating its 150th Anniversary.
Artists of all abilities are welcome to enter the poster design contest through Holland America Line's Facebook page and Instagram account. The poster can be hand-drawn or digitally created, and the post must include the hashtag "#HollandAmericaLine150Contest" to enter. All other elements are up to the imagination of the creator. A panel of Holland America Line executives and leaders will select the winner.
"Holland America Line's poster art is a rich and important tradition in our company's heritage. This contest provides an opportunity for our fans to engage in our 150th Anniversary by contributing to our enduring history through new poster art designs," said Kacy Cole, vice president of marketing and e-commerce, Holland America Line. "We know how passionate our online communities are and truly look forward to the submissions we will get from fans around the world."
In addition to being featured on Holland America Line's social media channels, the winning poster will be on display in the New York City cruise terminal April 6 and 7 while Rotterdam is overnight in the city before departing on its 150th Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing to Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Celebrations for Holland America Line's 150th Anniversary began last year, and the poster contest is just one way the cruise line is marking the milestone. Additional commemorations have included two anniversary transatlantic crossings aboard Rotterdam departing in October 2022 and an upcoming April 2023 departure, the launch of De Lijn Gin and a limited-edition Pilsner beer, menus that showcase Holland America Line's 150-year history with entrées reminiscent of dishes served as early as the 1920s, "Throwback Happy Hours" with prices as a low as 75 cents, a new partnership with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, 150th Anniversary merchandise in the shipboard ships and more.
The sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the Unites States, District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 21 or older at the time of entry. The winner will be announced in March 2023. Full contest rules can be found online - here.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.29 |
- 4.89% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
73.03 |
|
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
17.63 |
+ 4.13% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
What was the name of the cruise ship that caught fire during a Christmas cruise in 1963 and sank six days later?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
Which liner featured a lounge called the "Boat 'n' Bottle Bar"?
Answer - This bar was on board the Independence from 1951. The vessel belonged to American Export Lines.
courtesy of Hans-Peter Lemcke-Braselmann
Cruise News - February 13, 2023
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Yorktown, Va., to be Featured on Princess' 2024 Schedule
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For the first time ever, Princess Cruises will call at Yorktown, Va. and Virginia's Historic Triangle, as part of a series of custom-curated itineraries in summer 2024 that will highlight opportunities to experience Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown in addition to visiting the historic seaside town.
Princess Cruises is planning five day-long calls – three via Island Princess (2,200 guests/900 crew) and two via Emerald Princess (3,080 guests/1,200 crew) – that will result in a significant economic impact to the region, which has played an important role in American history.
 Additional details, including specific sailing dates, itineraries and shore excursions, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
"Princess is already well known for our unique itineraries that appeal to our guests who gravitate toward interesting historical and cultural opportunities and Yorktown is perfectly in tune with that philosophy, offering not only a glimpse at the Revolutionary War but also dining, shopping and activity options with wide-ranging appeal. It's a win-win for everyone," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
Padgett added that the new itineraries are even more significant as interest builds ahead of events and festivities across Virginia to commemorate the 250th anniversaries of the Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence.
"Our community is rooted in history and it is an important part of our visitor mix. We are honored that Princess Cruises sees the value in bringing their customers to Yorktown," said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director, York County Economic & Tourism Development. "Additional visitors coming to our area via the cruise line would contribute to the region's economy, benefiting retail, restaurants, and regional attractions, as well as generating revenue for both the Commonwealth and multiple local governments."
As the first major cruise line to call on the region, Princess understands and appreciates the significant role it plays in boosting area tourism and, as it does with other homeport and port of call communities, the company will work with local tour operators to showcase the attributes of this fascinating historical region while benefiting local residents.
"We couldn't be more excited about this incredible opportunity to add this truly unforgettable destination experience to our already impressive array of itineraries," said Padgett. "As a native Virginian myself, I can attest that an itinerary that offers the chance to visit Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown promises to be a most welcome addition for our guests, providing them memorable vacation experiences that they can't find anywhere else."
Yorktown offers 300 years of history from revolutionary battlefields to 18th Century homes. Picturesque streets provide the backdrop for art galleries, antique and specialty shops, while attractions like the Watermen's Museum offer hands-on programs and exhibits for all ages. Entertainment, including Fifes and Drums performances, abounds, and visitors can stroll along the scenic riverwalk lined with charming restaurants and shops that offer a view of the York River.
Sure to be a popular shore excursion, a visit to Colonial Williamsburg will allow guests to discover why this was the capital of Virginia and the largest, most prosperous American colony. Men and women from all walks of life strolled these streets, and Princess guests will follow in their footsteps as they re-trace history They'll also explore dozens of original buildings, homes, and shops reconstructed on 301 acres – most on their original foundations. Rare animal breeds, historic trades, and lovingly restored gardens add layers of authenticity to the Colonial Williamsburg experience. Guests will feel as if they've traveled back in time.
Guests opting to visit Jamestown, just a short, 30-minute motorcoach ride from the port, will be captivated by the history behind the original site of the first permanent English settlement in North America and the story of the role of the three cultures - European, North American and African - that came together to lay the foundation for a uniquely American form of democratic government, language, free enterprise and society.
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Victoria Cruises Line Offers a Unique but Affordable Residential Ship Experience for Adventurous Travelers
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Imagine exploring the world by day, but returning to your residence each night.
Victoria Cruises Line is offering a unique but affordable lifestyle at sea opportunity featuring a long-term, live-aboard residential cruise experience.
The travel possibilities are endless. Adventurous travelers could sample delicious red Chianti in sunny Tuscany, take a tour of ancient Greek mythology, watch polar bears in Spitsbergen, Norway, catch an underwater glimpse of the marine wonderland of St. Kitts, be amazed by the stunning sight of giant elephant tortoises in the Galapagos Islands, or take a mystical Andean trek in the Mayan land of Peru.
These are just some of the more than 200 exciting destinations that Victoria Cruises Line will visit when the Victoria Amazing and Victoria Majestic Ocean liners, operating as elegant and exclusive houseboats, launch in May 2023 from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Please note that the departure date may change due to occupancy rates.
With its headquarters in Limassol, Cyprus, Victoria Cruises Line offers travel enthusiasts an intriguing adults-only (18 years or over) adventure to rent luxury suites and premium staterooms for a minimum of six months, or long-term for an unlimited maximum period.
Victoria Cruises Line's around-the-world trip will take approximately 27 months with about 540 days spent at ports. The boats will spend an average of 1-7 days in each port, so its guests can explore not only the port city but also the surrounding villages at their leisure.
"Victoria Cruises Line offers our customers a unique lifestyle that is completely new to the shipping industry," said Olavs Zvinelis, CEO of Victoria Cruises Line. "We provide rental cabins at affordable prices to clients who want to live on a boat and travel the world without any strings attached. It's our mission to deliver a unique houseboat experience for our residents, who will live on board like a little family."
Zvinelis added that so far 50% of the ship's staterooms and suites have already been reserved by clients and the majority have chosen the unlimited, undefined rental period.
Top benefits and features of Victoria Cruises Line's distinctive life at sea offering:
• Discover the world by visiting 200-plus enticing destinations.
• Make a cruise ship your home and save dramatically on your living costs.
• Free and unlimited internet use.
• Each of the ships' inside cabins has an LCD monitor so that passengers can view images from the ship's exterior cameras.
If Victoria Cruises Line's first boats are a success, they will look to expand their fleet while keeping the focus on maintaining a high quality of service.
"We have no competitors. Our value for money is by far the best, even compared to classic cruise ships," said Zvinelis. "Rather than the ownership option, which is too costly for many, Victoria Cruises Line is proposing an intermediate solution: chartering. This will give people a much more affordable way to travel and live on a houseboat. In summary, a houseboat lifestyle can offer much more than a classic cruise."
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Princess Announces Senior Staff for New Sun Princess
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The countdown is on! In just one year, Sun Princess will debut in the gleaming Mediterranean. The first of Princess Cruises' next generation ships, Sun Princess will welcome its very first guests onboard for next-level vacations with a host of spectacular new vistas, venues and experiences, along with newly inspired signature spaces, all while celebrating the cruise line's legacy as The Love Boat.
"With such an amazing opportunity to elevate the guest experience, it takes an equally talented team of revered mariners to oversee the ship's final stages of construction at the Fincantieri shipyard, then officially take delivery of the ship and welcome the first guests onboard," said Princess President John Padgett.
The highly experienced team, with a collective 150-plus years of service, that will guide Sun Princess through the remainder of her construction phase and bring her out for the anticipated inaugural season include Captains Craig Street and Paolo Arrigo; Staff Captains Brian Whelan and Valerio Esposito; Hotel General Managers Ralph D'Souza and Simona Stumberger; and Chief Engineers Gaetano Guida and Davor Pavlovic-Kalifo.
"Sun Princess promises something special for everyone and we're pleased to announce the skilled and deserving team, led by Captains Street and Arrigo, who will guide Sun Princess through the remainder of the construction phase and ready her for her shining debut in just one year," Padgett added.
Here's a more in-depth look at the maritime professionals who will be instrumental in the ship's progress, delivery and beyond:
Captain Craig Street: Captain Craig Street joined Princess as a deck cadet in 1990, following his time at the Warsash Maritime Academy in the south of England that also included training aboard cruise ships. Appointed third officer in 1993, Street worked his way up through the ranks, taking command of Star Princess in 2008, and has since served as captain of 13 Princess ships. Street developed an appreciation for travel at an early age as he spent much of his youth living with his family overseas in various countries including Nigeria, Singapore, Dubai, Tanzania and Saudi Arabia. He was educated at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh, Scotland, before joining the Princess family. With a keen interest in flying, he also holds a private helicopter license and when time permits, enjoys playing golf in the amazing ports Princess visits. His favorite ports are those in French Polynesia and Hawaii.
Captain Paolo Arrigo: An accomplished mariner whose career spans more than a quarter century at sea, Captain Paolo Arrigo joined Princess Cruises as a deck cadet in 1996 after serving for a year in the Italian Coast Guard. After moving up through the ranks, serving as first officer, safety officer and staff captain, Arrigo was named captain at Princess Cruises in 2017. In addition to his role as captain, Arrigo has worked for Princess' shoreside headquarters on a variety of high-profile projects, including the managing elements of the development and launch of the MedallionClass Experience. His extensive maritime experience and easy rapport with guests and crew made him a natural choice to serve as captain of the reality-based television program, The Real Love Boat, which recently completed its first season and attracted millions of new viewers to the brand.
Staff Captain Brian Whelan: A native of Galway City in Ireland, Brian Whelan began his maritime career 23 years ago with Princess Cruises, and over the years has steadily moved up the ranks to his current position of staff captain. A graduate of the Glasgow College of Nautical Studies, Whelan holds a Master Mariners' Certificate and has been named one of 20 leaders under 40 by Seatrade Cruise News, a prestigious cruise industry publication. When he's not onboard ship, Whelan enjoys traveling with his family and lists the Mediterranean as his favorite place to cruise.
Staff Captain Valerio Esposito: A native of Meta di Sorrento near Naples, Italy, Valerio Esposito's career spans more than two decades, including the past 17 with Princess Cruises. He started as deck cadet on Golden Princess in 2006, and quickly progressed through the ranks up to his promotion to staff captain in 2018, becoming one of the youngest in the company to earn that position. Over the years he has commanded virtually every ship in the fleet, including Star Princess, Dawn Princess, Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, Crown Princess, Ruby Princess, Caribbean Princess, Island Princess, Diamond Princess and for P&O Australia - Pacific Pearl and Pacific Eden. He is currently staff captain of Majestic Princess. Esposito completed his studies in the South of Italy at Nautical Institute Nino Bixio, nearby his hometown, and holds a Master Mariners Captain License.
Hotel General Manager Ralph D'Souza: D'Souza joined Princess in 2006 as a junior purser and worked his way through the ranks and achieved his goal of becoming hotel general manager in 2019. The highlight of D'Souza's career was being chosen to be part of the inaugural team for the new Royal Class series of ships. During his seagoing career, D'Souza has been part of the launch team for Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess. In 2017, he was selected to be part of the deployment team of the MedallionClass Experience, where he was an ambassador of this new and innovative way to cruise with Princess. D'Souza holds a degree in EMBA and a Ph.D. in business administration. When he is not sailing the sea, he enjoys spending time at his seacoast home where he soaks up the abundance of nature around his home by gardening and keeping fit.
Hotel General Manager Simona Stumberger: A native of Slovenia, where she studied language and hospitality management, Stumberger began her career at sea in the bar department and further diversified her hotel experiences by working in the guest services department and hand in hand with the hotel and food & beverage division. She is now proudly a hotel general manager, where she shares her passion for travel and impeccable service with each guest. When on vacation, she loves spending time with family and friends, hiking the beautiful mountains in the Alps and looking after her orchids, which are her passion.
Chief Engineer Gaetano Guida: Gaetano Guida joined Princess Cruises in 2002 and was named chief engineer aboard Royal Princess in 2017. After earning his nautical degree in July 1999 from Nautical Institute Nino Bixio in Piano di Sorrento, Italy, Guida joined the Italian Navy serving on the "M/V Vesuvio," a refueling ship for other naval ships. He met his wife onboard Star Princess in 2015, and together they have two sons. His hobbies include reading, particularly, leadership and psychology books, and listening to music.
Chief Engineer Davor Pavlovic-Kalifo: Davor Pavlovic-Kalifo joined Princess Cruises in 2002, as second engineer and was named chief engineer aboard Sapphire Princess in 2014. A native of Croatia, Pavlovic-Kalifo worked as an engine cadet onboard a cargo ship and then went on to college, graduating as a marine engineer. His first assignment on a cruise ship was Tahitian Princess, where he met his wife. They are proud parents to a 3-year-old boy, and they love spending time as a family in Dubrovnik. When not traveling the world, Pavlovic-Kalifo enjoys deep sea fishing and exploring the Adriatic islands via his motorboat.
Several members of this group already are spending time in the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and over the course of several months they will be joined by nearly 1,600 teammates who will serve as the inaugural Sun Princess crew, ready to provide guests the vacation of a lifetime.
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Oceania Cruises Showcases the Natural Wonders of Alaska's "Last Frontier" From a New Perspective
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Oceania Cruises, the destination-focused cruise line, offers an abundance of immersive experiences in "The Last Frontier," embedding travelers in the fabric of Alaska's local communities. Sailing from Los Angeles, Seattle and Vancouver, travelers looking to go beyond the typical tourist sights and discover unique perspectives on local cultures and cuisines have 14 departures to choose from between May and September 2023 aboard the 656-guest Regatta.
 With more than 250 tours and excursions offered in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Wrangell and beyond, the 49th state offers plentiful opportunities for exciting glacial explorations, authentic culinary classes, native tribal site visits, craft beer tastings, national park excursions and an opportunity to savor the region's beguiling natural beauty. Through Oceania Cruises' Go Local tour series, guests can participate in exclusive small group excursions to experience destinations on an entirely new level. Here adventurers are welcomed into local homes and businesses and immersed in the local way of life to learn about and dive into generations-old traditions.
Travelers booking this month can save even more on these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with Oceania Cruises' 20th Anniversary Sale, featuring free shore excursions or a free beverage package or free shipboard credit plus a special bonus gift of up to $800 shipboard credit per suite or stateroom on a raft of scintillating Alaska itineraries.
"We're delighted to offer our guests a fresh perspective of Alaska, one filled with touching personal moments connecting with nature, people and cuisine," stated Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "The innate beauty of our small ships, especially in a destination like Alaska aboard our intimate Regatta, allows guests access to small ports and remote harbors not offered by others."
Destination Highlights
Untouched and full of wildlife, Klawock is the Alaska that seasoned travelers yearn to experience. In 2023, Oceania Cruises will be the very first cruise line to call on this port. The town has been a native Tlingit village for thousands of years and features one of the most extensive collections of totems in the world.
Once a Tlingit Native American stronghold, then a Russian outpost, and finally an American settlement in 1867, Wrangell has endured dramatic change and honors it. In Wrangell, explorers can learn the daily happenings of a local from an Alaskan guide, fishing for traditional catches such as salmon and halibut, and discovering the native Tlingit's influence on the community.
Adventures abound in Juneau, where thrill-seekers can go glacier-trekking on Mendenhall Glacier or even sea-kayaking through the coastal waterways traveled for centuries by the Aleut Native Americans. Foodies will enjoy the "Flavors of Juneau" shore excursion with a visit to the Alaskan Brewing Company and Chez Alaska Cooking School.
Enjoy local beers in Skagway following a day of rock climbing and rappelling down steep granite cliffs or an afternoon soaring the skies in a helicopter. For a more relaxed adventure, take a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad and marvel at the trail that the gold rushers etched into the high mountain pass.
Icy Strait Point offers ample opportunities to explore the unspoiled wilderness all around. Search for bears, deer and bald eagles in their natural habitat in the remote Spasski River Valley outside of Hoonah. Get immersed in Tlingit culture, song and storytelling at the Heritage Center or embark on an adrenaline-fueled ZipRider experience on the world's largest zip line.
In Ketchikan, join the captain and crew for an extraordinary journey of discovery on the Aleutian Ballad, the storied crab boat from Discovery Network's "Deadliest Catch." Or guests can partake in a personalized fishing expedition where their catch is prepared by a personal chef as the main course of a gourmet lunch, served around a crackling campfire amidst the centuries-old Alaska rainforest.
Go deep-sea sport fishing for salmon in Sitka. Visit the world-famous Alaska Raptor Center, one of the largest rehabilitation centers for injured eagles, hawks, falcons and owls, and witness the magnificence of sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoises and brown bears on a "Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest" shore excursion.
Oceania Cruises' sleek and elegant Regatta features four unique, open-seating restaurants serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea, a world-class fitness center and spa, eight lounges and bars, a casino and 333 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas – perfect for viewing Alaska's stunning landscapes. The ship's intimate size allows for immersive experiences in every port that dig deep into the local people, culture and cuisine. Regatta can also call in ports like Wrangell and Prince Rupert that larger ships do not, providing up-close views of Sawyer and Hubbard Glaciers and access to the astounding beauty of Tracy Arm Fjord.
Voyage Highlights
• Glitz to Glaciers: 12 days from Los Angeles to Vancouver visiting San Francisco, Astoria, Klawock, Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan. Departs May 18.
• Alaska Adventures & Landscapes: 10 days from Vancouver to Seattle visiting Wrangell, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan and Victoria. Departs on May 30.
• Gold Rush, Glaciers & Wildlife: 10 days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Juneau, Klawock and Victoria. Departs June 23.
• Wildlife & Frontiers: 11 days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Klawock, Prince Rupert and Victoria. Departs July 3.
• Wildlife & Wonders: Seven days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Wrangell, Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria. Departs July 14.
• Alaska & British Columbia Array: 11 days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Wrangell, Prince Rupert and Victoria. Departs July 21.
• Stunning Scenery: Seven days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka and Victoria. Departs August 1.
• Dazzling Alaska: 10 days from Seattle to Seattle visiting Klawock, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria. Departs August 8.
• Radiant Alaska: 10 days from Seattle to Vancouver visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Victoria. Departs August 28
• Alaska & California Treasures: 20 days from Vancouver to Los Angeles visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Prince Rupert, Victoria, Astoria, Los Angeles, Catalina Island, San Francisco and Ensenada. Departs September 7.
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Royal Caribbean Group Names Palle Laursen Executive Vice President, Head of Marine
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Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) named Palle Laursen as executive vice president, head of marine, effective May 1, 2023. Laursen will report to Royal Caribbean Group's President and CEO Jason Liberty and will join the company's Executive Committee.
 With this newly created position, the company will centralize its global and brand marine operations functions under Laursen. He will oversee all marine operations for the company's entire fleet, as well as strategic oversight of marine operations of its TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, of which it's a 50% joint-venture owner.
"It is with great pleasure that we welcome Palle Laursen to the Royal Caribbean Group," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "Palle has had a long and distinguished career with Maersk and is a recognized leader in the maritime industry. With more than 25 years of experience, his direct technical and operational knowledge will serve our company well, especially as we continually work to decarbonize our business."
Most recently, Laursen served as chief fleet and technical officer at A.P. Moller – Maersk and was responsible for its entire fleet of more than 750 container vessels, 400 chartered vessels and 350 owned vessels as well as chartering, technical management, crew management, safety and compliance, newbuilding activities and engineering services. He also led Maersk's effort to have the entire fleet operating fully carbon neutral by 2040.
Having joined the Maersk Group in early 1998, Laursen has spent his entire professional career at the Danish shipping company. Previously, he was vice president and head of Ship Management and also held several other roles with increasing responsibilities, including head of technical services, ship engineering and technical vessel operations.
"This is an exciting time for the Royal Caribbean Group, and I very much look forward to helping the company deliver the best vacations in the world, responsibly," said Palle Laursen. "I look forward to joining the most innovative team in the industry at Royal Caribbean Group and lead the marine team alongside a team committed to operational excellence, and environmental stewardship."
Laursen graduated from the Svendborg International Maritime Academy in Denmark as a marine engineer and has since completed several executive and leadership development programs.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.87 |
+ 11.56% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
69.09 |
|
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.59 |
+ 11.79% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
Which liner featured a lounge called the "Boat 'n' Bottle Bar"?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
October 25, 1986 was the end of an era for Cunard Line. What was the significance of that date?
Answer - Last sailing of a trans-Atlantic "steamship" when the QE2 went to a German shipyard and received new engines and re-entered service as a motor ship.
courtesy of Richard MacGregory
Cruise News - February 6, 2023
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Princess Next-Generation Ship - Sun Princess - to Feature the Brand's Most Exciting & Contemporary Spaces
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Here comes Sun Princess! Princess Cruises has revealed a first glimpse of the most contemporary and state-of-the-art designs imaged yet onboard Sun Princess – "The Love Boat" line's newest, largest and most innovative ship ever built and scheduled to debut in early 2024. With bright designs inspired by rays of sunlight and next-level expanded spaces, guests are in for an extraordinary cruise experience including a showstopping Arena theater and stunning three-story dining venue - a first for Princess.
"With the construction of any new ship, we have the incredible opportunity to design standout spaces with our guests' preferences in mind," said John Padgett. "With the new platform and size of Sun Princess, we're uniquely able to refresh venues we know our guests love and expand upon, redesign and elevate them to the next level. We know our sun-inspired designs will exceed expectations and elevate the entire Princess experience."
 A first for Princess, the Horizons Dining Room introduces a stunning three-story dining venue. This newly envisioned space is open and flexible, featuring dining options to suit every mood. Stunning wake views and natural light highlight a decorative sculpture that stretches from deck 6 to deck 8. The three decks will each have their own personalities, offer different dining experiences and range in levels of formality.
Contemporary and versatile, the Princess Arena is an evolution and the most technologically advanced Princess Theater design. Upon entering, guests will be drawn to a stunning visual above the central stage which can become part of the show. A radical ceiling accentuates the Arena's in-the-round configuration with soft curved walls that allude to the movement of the tide. With moveable seats and capacity of a little more than 1,000 people, three configurations will maximize sight lines, as technological capabilities deliver a truly captivating experience.
Additional signature favorites with new designs and décor scheduled to debut onboard Sun Princess in early 2024, include:
Alfredo's Pizzeria – This charming favorite that has been named "Best Pizza at Sea" will once again have an open kitchen design, allowing guests to watch as the chefs create pizza by hand and serve them straight out of them oven. New to the kitchen is a professional, open-mouth oven that reaches 968 degrees, allowing chefs to create truly authentic contemporary Neapolitan pizza. Guests will enjoy an authentic experience comparable to one they would receive when traveling to Italy.
Princess Casino – The largest Princess casino in both size and number of gaming positions will be in the Piazza, giving guests easy access to their favorite betting games. The spacious floorplan ensures guest comfort and entertainment, and with over 200 of the newest and most popular slots and video poker games, there is something for everyone.
Crown Grill – A favorite of Princess guests who enjoy a perfectly grilled steak, Crown Grill on Sun Princess takes this iconic space and modernizes it with a classic steakhouse feel weaved with modern touches. Inviting leather booths, circular seating and modern artwork custom designed for this restaurant will welcome guests in for an unforgettable dinner experience. Plus, guests can enjoy views of their food being prepared in the largest show galley on a Princess ship.
Sabatini's Italian Trattoria – Serving a modern, casual but elegant Italian dining experience, the newly imagined Sabatini's will appeal to families with unique handmade pasta courses prepared fresh daily. A crisp, tailored, geometric design that also will feature a pasta room for guests to marvel at the pasta-making process. The restaurant is designed with intimate bistro-style nooks and a dramatic circular main room.
Princess Live! – Combining the design elements of Princess Live! and guest favorite Explorer's Lounge, guests on Sun Princess will enjoy participatory, signature cruise activities like game shows, trivia and the daily Wake Show. Luxurious textures and materials will be featured on a mixture of comfortable loose and fixed lounge seating with full beverage service, an inviting semi-open façade, and large LED screen on stage. Guests can easily move from Princess Live! to enjoy a meal or cocktail with the close proximity to restaurants and cocktail lounges, bridging a seamless integration of entertainment and bar concepts.
vThe Shops of Princess – With five retail locations, plus an art gallery, The Shops of Princess get a makeover on Sun Princess and guests can expect the same great experience, just more of it. Modern, elegant boutiques connect fluidly, featuring interactive experiences. Guests can shop easily from space to space featuring Princess logo merchandise, a lifestyle boutique, a new bazaar featuring destination-specific selections, plus jewelry, watches, cosmetics fragrances and a modern art gallery.
Additional spaces with new designs, signage and décor will include Crooner's, Wheelhouse Bar, International Cafe, Good Spirits and Gelateria.
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the largest Princess ship ever constructed, accommodating 4,000 guests, embraces Italian heritage by featuring a newly designed, brand-iconic Piazza and The Dome, a cutting-edge entertainment space inspired by the terraces of Santorini. While introducing a completely new class of ships for the cruise line, Sun Princess also remains true to the smooth clean lines and design aesthetics of the cruise line's famous Seawitch icon and popularized in the original "Love Boat" TV series.
Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion experience that will extend Princess' leadership position in delivering exceptional and custom experiences at unmatched scale, offering guests personalized service only previously found on the industry's smallest ships.
Part of Carnival Corporation's green cruising focus, Sun Princess will be the first Princess ship and one of 11 new vessels in the corporate fleet powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), the world's cleanest fossil fuel.
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Royal Caribbean Group Reports 2022 Results and Provides Forward Guidance
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Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) today reported fourth quarter 2022 Loss per Share of $(1.96) and Adjusted Loss per Share of $(1.12). These results exceeded the company's guidance due to better pricing on close-in demand, strong onboard spend, favorable timing of operating costs, and lower interest expense.
"2022 was a pivotal year as we successfully returned our business to full operations and delivered memorable vacation experiences to 6 million guests," said Jason Liberty, president and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Group. "We also returned to positive Adjusted EBITDA and Operating Cash Flow by consistently growing revenue and controlling costs. Our teams have worked tirelessly to deliver the best vacation experiences, responsibly, and we are grateful for their extraordinary efforts."
"We are experiencing a record-breaking WAVE season, resulting in a booked position approaching previous record highs and at higher prices. This, along with the normalization of our booking window, provides the visibility for us to provide annual guidance, which is in line with our Trifecta program," added Liberty. "The combination of our industry-leading global brands, most innovative fleet, nimble sourcing and our continued focus on profitability positions us well to deliver record yields and Adjusted EBITDA in 2023."
Financial Highlights & Outlook
Fourth Quarter 2022:
• Load Factors were in line with guidance at 95%, with Caribbean sailings reaching 100%, and holiday sailings close to 110%.
• Total revenues per passenger cruise day were up 3.5% as-reported and 4.5% in Constant Currency, compared to the fourth quarter of 2019.
• Total revenues were $2.6 billion, Net Loss was $(500.2) million or $(1.96) per share, Adjusted Net Loss was $(284.9) million or $(1.12) per share, and Adjusted EBITDA was $409.3 million.
Full Year 2022:
• Load Factors were 85% overall, full fleet back in operation since June of 2022.
• Total revenues were $8.8 billion, Net Loss was $(2.2) billion or $(8.45) per share, Adjusted Net Loss was $(1.9) billion or $(7.50) per share, and Adjusted EBITDA was $711.6 million.
Full Year 2023 Outlook:
• Royal Caribbean said that it is experiencing a record-breaking WAVE season, driven by strong demand. The seven biggest booking weeks in the company's history have occurred since the last earnings call in November 2022.
• 2023 cumulative booked position remains well within historical ranges for all quarters and at record rates. North America based itineraries are booked in line with 2019 for the full year, and ahead for the second quarter through the fourth quarter.
• Net Yields are expected to increase 2.5% to 4.5% in both as-reported and in Constant Currency versus 2019. Net Yields are expected to ramp up as load factors reach historical levels by late spring.
• Royal Caribbean said that it continues to successfully manage costs in a complicated environment with Net Cruise Costs (NCC), excluding Fuel, per APCD expected to increase 4.5% to 5.5% as-reported and 4.75% to 5.75% in Constant Currency compared to 2019, a three-year old benchmark, and include approximately 210 basis points from lingering transitional costs (e.g. crew movement) and additional structural costs (e.g. full year operations of Perfect Day at CocoCay and the new Galveston terminal).
• Royal Caribbean said that it expects to exceed prior record Adjusted EBITDA, achieved in 2019.
• Royal Caribbean said that it expects Adjusted Earnings per Share in the range of $3.00 to $3.60.
First Quarter 2023 Outlook:
• Net Yields are expected to increase 0.5% to 1.5% as-reported and 1% to 2% in Constant Currency compared to 2019, with load factors reaching 100% and total revenues per passenger cruise day up in the mid-to-high single digit range in both as-reported and Constant Currency compared to 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to increase approximately 8.3% as-reported and approximately 8.5% in Constant Currency, compared to 2019, including 320 basis points of lagging transitional costs, additional structural costs, and timing of expenses.
• Adjusted Loss per Share is expected to be in the range of $(0.65) – $(0.85).
Fourth Quarter 2022 Results
Royal Caribbean said that it reported Net Loss for the fourth quarter of 2022 of $(0.5) billion or $(1.96) per share compared to Net Loss of $(1.4) billion or $(5.33) per share for the same period in the prior year. Adjusted Net Loss was $(0.3) billion or $(1.12) per share for the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to Adjusted Net Loss of $(1.2) billion or $(4.78) per share for the same period in the prior year.
Fourth quarter Load Factors were in line with guidance at 95%, with Caribbean sailings reaching 100%. Total revenues per passenger cruise day were up 3.5% as-reported and 4.5% in Constant Currency versus the fourth quarter of 2019 due to strong pricing on close-in demand and continued strength in onboard revenues.
Gross Cruise Costs per APCD increased 4.9% as-reported and 5.8% in Constant Currency, compared to the fourth quarter of 2019. NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 3.9% as-reported and 4.7% in Constant Currency, compared to the fourth quarter of 2019. Gross Cruise Costs per APCD and NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD for the fourth quarter included $1.23 per APCD related to health protocols and one-time lagging costs related to fleet ramp up. The Group expects transitory costs related to health protocols and ramp up of operations to be largely gone in 2023 as the majority of crew have returned and protocols have eased. In the fourth quarter, the company continued to benefit from multiple actions taken to reshape its cost structure and to help partially offset inflationary and supply chain challenges.
"Fourth quarter results reflect the continued strong demand for our vacation experiences and our teams' ability to manage costs in a complicated environment while staying focused on delivering the best vacation experiences expected by our guests," said Naftali Holtz, chief financial officer, Royal Caribbean Group. "The benefit from multiple actions we have taken during the last few years to improve margins continue to yield results, as we focus on executing our proven formula of moderate yield growth and strong cost controls."
Royal Caribbean said that it recorded a loss contingency of $130 million in the fourth quarter related to a Helms-Burton Act claim which the company continues to vigorously defend.
Full Year 2022 Results
For the full year, Royal Caribbean said that it reported Net Loss of $(2.2) billion or $(8.45) per share compared to Net Loss of $(5.3) billion or $(20.89) per share in the prior year. Royal Caribbean said that it also reported Adjusted Net Loss of $(1.9) billion or $(7.50) per share for the full year 2022 compared to Adjusted Net Loss of $(4.8) billion or $(19.19) per share in the prior year.
Update on Bookings
Royal Caribbean said that it is very encouraged about the demand environment for 2023. Booking volumes in the fourth quarter were significantly higher than the corresponding period in 2019, culminating in record booking weeks for the Group for both Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Momentum continues into early 2023 and the company is experiencing a record-breaking WAVE season. Overall, the seven biggest booking weeks in the company's history have occurred since the middle of November 2022, including the first five weeks of WAVE. The booking window has continued to move back to normal, providing further confidence in forward looking business, as guests plan for the future. Consumer spending onboard and pre-cruise purchases continue to exceed prior years driven by greater participation at higher prices, indicating quality and healthy future demand.
The cumulative booked position remains well within historical ranges at record rates and has improved significantly since November. North America sailings, many of which visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, are leading the way and are booked in line with record 2019 levels for the full year and ahead for the second quarter through the fourth quarter. Bookings for European itineraries have been accelerating during WAVE and are now higher than 2019.
"Leisure travel strength continues as consumer spend is shifting towards experiences, with cruising remaining an attractive value proposition," said Liberty. "The quality demand trends further exhibit the strength of our brands and the growing propensity to cruise."
As of December 31, 2022, the Group's customer deposit balance was at a record $4.2 billion.
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Norwegian Cruise Line Celebrates First Cruise Season in South Africa and Namibia
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Norwegian Cruise Line celebrates a new milestone today having successfully concluded its inaugural season sailing from Cape Town, South Africa.
On Dec. 21, 2022, Norwegian Jade became the first vessel in the line’s 18-ship fleet to homeport from the South African port, offering international and local guests 12-day Extraordinary Journeys along the coast of South Africa and Namibia with an overnight stay in Cape Town, South Africa and visits to Mossel Bay, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Richard’s Bay, South Africa; and Luderitz and Walvis Bay, Namibia.
 The international cruise line is building on its successful inaugural season in South Africa and has recently announced the deployment of Norwegian Dawn to the region in winter 2024. Homeporting from Cape Town, South Africa and Port Louis, Mauritius, the 2,340-passenger ship will offer a series of Extraordinary Journey voyages between January and March 2024.
Harry Sommer, Brand President and CEO at NCL, said, “As part of our Guest First philosophy we are focused on enhancing our destination offerings, providing our guests with more immersive itineraries that are designed to create memories of a lifetime. Our new Africa voyages are a testament to that, combining bucket-list locations such as Cape Town and Mauritius with hidden gems like Pomene and Maputo in Mozambique or Fort Dauphin in Madagascar. With an average of almost 12 hours in each port, allowing more time to fully experience these unforgettable destinations, the new voyages are already amongst our fastest selling cruises for 2024 and are attracting guests from almost 60 countries worldwide.”
Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, comments: “Cruise tourism generates R300 million in economic impact for the Western Cape and supports thousands of jobs in the province. Positioning Cape Town as a homeport for international cruising and a gateway to Africa is a key growth opportunity for our region, and we welcome NCL’s commitment to sailing from Cape Town.”
On Jan. 3, 2024, Norwegian Dawn will embark on her 17-day repositioning cruise to the region, sailing for the first time in the Company’s 56-year history from Doha, Qatar to Mauritius. The itinerary provides for a unique combination of calls to the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania and Madagascar.
On Jan. 20, 2024, she will then cruise a 12-day itinerary from Port Louis, Mauritius, calling to Pointe des Galets, Réunion; Fort Dauphin (Toalagnaro), Madagascar; Pomene and Maputo, Mozambique; Richard’s Bay, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Mossel Bay and Cape Town, South Africa.
On Feb. 1 and March 8, 2024, Norwegian Dawn will complete 12-day roundtrip voyages through South Africa and Namibia with calls to Mossel Bay and Durban in South Africa, and Luderitz and Walvis Bay in Namibia, before embarking on her most extensive itinerary on March 20, sailing from Cape Town, South Africa to Barcelona, Spain. The 21-day voyage along Africa’s west coast will visit ports in Namibia, Angola, Sao Tome and Principe, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Senegal, Cape Verde, Canary Islands and Morocco.
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Carnival Announces Unique Cruises From Long Beach to Tokyo and Sydney to Singapore
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Carnival Cruise Line opened reservations today for sailings which will mark two first-ever port visits for Carnival – with unique itineraries for cruises between Long Beach, Calif. and Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan, as well as between Sydney, Australia and Singapore.
Carnival announced four new 2024 Carnival Journeys sailings on Carnival Panorama and Carnival Splendor.
“Offering guests new destinations to explore and make fun memories builds on our incredible portfolio of Carnival Journeys sailings,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We have over 150 long cruises open for sale right now, with itineraries taking guests to beautiful places all over the world, and now Carnival Panorama and Carnival Splendor will expand on that with these truly unique sailings.”
The four new itineraries include:
Carnival Panorama
• 18-day Transpacific Carnival Journeys sailing from Long Beach to Tokyo (Yokohama) departing on Aug. 22, 2024 – Ketchikan, AK; Cruise Endicott Arm Fjord; Sitka, AK; Icy Strait Point, AK; Kushiro, Japan; Aomori, Japan
• 25-day Transpacific Carnival Journeys sailing from Singapore to Long Beach departing on Oct. 12, 2024 – Ho Chi Minh (Phu My), Vietnam; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; Manila, Philippines; Guam; Honolulu, HI, Maui (Kahului), HI
Carnival Splendor
• 15-day Carnival Journeys sailing from Sydney to Singapore departing on July 21, 2024 – Brisbane, Australia; Airlie Beach, Australia; Cairns, Australia; Lombok Island, Indonesia; Benoa (Denpasar), Bali
• 16-day Carnival Journeys sailing from Singapore to Sydney departing on Aug. 24, 2024 – Tanjung Priok, Jakarta, Java; Benoa (Denpasar), Bali; Lombok Island, Indonesia; Darwin, Australia; Airlie Beach, Australia; Moreton Island, Australia
Carnival Panorama will be the first Carnival ship to visit Manila, Philippines. Carnival Splendor will mark the cruise line’s first visit to Tanjung Priok in Indonesia.
Both the 4,000-guest Carnival Panorama and 3,000-guest Carnival Splendor offer a variety of guest favorites, including Carnival Waterworks, Piano Bar 88, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Cloud 9 Salon & Spa and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.
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Princess Cruises Announces 2024 Alaska Season
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Now is the time to start planning the trip of a lifetime to Alaska with the recently announced summer 2024 season from Princess Cruises, the leading cruise line in the Great Land. Whether mapping out a first visit or a repeat vacation because Alaska is beckoning again, 2024 cruises and cruisetours are now on sale.
When visiting Alaska, guests choose Princess more than any other cruise line to set their sights on untamed wilderness, majestic glaciers, close-up wildlife and Denali, the tallest mountain in North America (hello photo opportunities!). And, Princess takes more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. With seamless vacation options and personalized service on MedallionClass cruise ships, to wilderness lodges located steps away from national parks—choices abound for all budgets, ages and desired destinations to visit Alaska.
The 2024 season marks the 55th anniversary for Princess Cruises sailing in Alaska and seven ships are scheduled to depart from four convenient home ports, including San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, B.C., and Anchorage (Whittier). In addition, guests can experience more of Alaska by combining the line's signature "Voyage of the Glaciers" cruise itinerary with various land tour options, staying at exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges.
"As the leading cruise line in Alaska, we deliver unforgettable vacations and we're also the most recommended line by travel advisors to their trusted clients," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "We're celebrating our 55th anniversary in 2024 cruising to this must-see destination, so whether it's your first or fifth time visiting Alaska, we are ready to help guests make inspiring memories to last a lifetime."
Highlights of the 2024 Alaska season include:
Cruises
• The Alaska 2024 season includes 158 departures on 14 unique itineraries with 17 destinations, including five glacier viewing experiences on seven ships.
• The season features 86 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, including most "Voyage of the Glaciers" itineraries between Anchorage (Whittier) and Vancouver, B.C., and many Inside Passage voyages roundtrip from Seattle, San Francisco and Vancouver, B.C.
• Three ships – Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess (departing Saturdays) and Grand Princess (departing Wednesdays) - sail the "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary featuring two glacier-viewing experiences on each cruise. In addition, northbound voyages include a "More Ashore" late-night stay in Juneau.
• Two ships – Discovery Princess (newest ship) and Majestic Princess – depart from Seattle on Saturdays and Sundays for seven-day "Inside Passage" cruises and include "More Ashore" late-night stays in Juneau.
• Crown Princess departs from San Francisco on 11-day "Inside Passage" cruises and offer guests the unique opportunity of sailing under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
• Ruby Princess sails from Vancouver on seven-day "Inside Passage" cruises, with many departures including sailing Glacier Bay National Park.
Cruisetours
• For guests looking to explore more of Alaska, Princess offers a variety of cruisetours combining a seven-day "Voyage of the Glaciers" cruise with an extended three to 10 nights on land, staying at the cruise line's exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges. All cruisetours include a visit to Alaska's top-two attractions – Glacier Bay National Park and Denali National Park.
• Cruisetours also offer the scenic opportunity to experience Princess' "Direct-to-Wilderness" rail service, departing directly from the ship in Whittier all the way to the Denali area for more time in the wilderness.
• Back by popular demand, the 17-night Ultimate Princess Connoisseur cruisetour, features two nights at each one of the five Princess Wilderness Lodges, on the doorsteps of legendary national parks including Kenai Fjords and Wrangell St. Elias and Denali National Park.
Award-Winning, Authentic Experiences Onboard, Ashore and On Land
Onboard and ashore, the award-winning "North to Alaska" enrichment program brings together local personalities, culture and Alaska seafood to immerse guests in the history and traditions of the Great Land. Highlights include:
• Puppies in the Piazza (Skagway) - guests get up close and personal with sled dog puppies.
• "Wild for Alaska Seafood" - industry-first, location-based seafood initiative in partnership with three fisheries with a commitment to environmentally responsible practices, making them some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world. Guests can select from 30 Alaska seafood dishes with featured items every night in all main dining rooms, serving varieties of salmon, cod, halibut, Dungeness crab wild spot prawns and razor clams.
• Exclusive Treehouse – Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge features a rustic treehouse on the property, featured on Treehouse Masters, where guests can explore and catch a glimpse of Denali.
• Top shore excursions include flightseeing and landing on glaciers, musher's camp and dog-sledding experience, whale watching, discovering glaciers by helicopter, fishing with the opportunity to "Cook My Catch" onboard or at the lodges and a remote wildlife and brown bear search.
• Onboard Jr. Ranger Program for youth and Glacier Bay Park Rangers and Naturalists to offer colorful commentary to bring scenic beauty to life.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
|
|
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
11.87 |
+ 11.56% |
|
Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
69.09 |
|
|
Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
16.59 |
+ 11.79% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
October 25, 1986 was the end of an era for Cunard Line. What was the significance of that date?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
For safety and speed reasons, the SS United States, once the fastest ship afloat, was constructed almost entirely of aluminium and steel. In fact, it was said that there were only two items made of wood on board the entire ship. What were those two items?
Answer - The grand piano and the top of the butcher's block in the galley were the only wood items (unless there were pencils on board,)
courtesy of Wayne Miller
Cruise News - January 30, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Welcomes Allura to Its Fleet
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Oceania Cruises this week introduced Allura today, naming the second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship. Debuting in 2025, Allura is the eighth vessel for the line and will be the sister ship to Vista, which sets sail in May 2023.
Named to reflect the excitement of starting an immersive new journey, Allura will entice guests to discover some of the world's most captivating locations, enjoying the freedom of exploration while sailing the open seas. Allura represents the eternal call of the mysterious and the unknown. The luxurious new vessel will bring travelers a world of enchantment where new adventures, familiar faces, off-the-beaten-path destinations and more await.
"At Oceania Cruises, we are always looking for ways to evolve, elevate and modernize our offerings to continuously surprise and delight our discerning guests as they enjoy immersive new experiences," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. "We are thrilled with the incredible demand we have witnessed for Allura's sister ship, Vista, with her 2023 maiden season already sold out, and we know Allura will be equally as popular with our guests.
The arrival of any new ship is the ideal time to look closely at what we offer travelers. As we prepare to welcome Allura to the family, we have already started planning exciting new elements to be added across the fleet."
In true Oceania Cruises style, Allura will serve The Finest Cuisine at Sea, boast exceptionally personalized service with warm and welcoming staff, and feature captivating residential furnishings and decor as she sails a variety of destination-rich itineraries. Measuring approximately 67,000 tons, Allura will accommodate 1,200 guests and be staffed by 800 officers and crew, offering industry-leading space and staff-to-guest ratios.
Allura highlights include an array of inventive new dining experiences including Ember, an upscale signature restaurant serving reimagined American classics, and Aquamar Kitchen, both debuting on Vista in May, as well as the largest standard staterooms and a new Chef's Studio.
Currently under construction by renowned shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. in Italy, the all-veranda vessel will sail her maiden voyage in spring 2025.
Details of Allura's inaugural season, which will feature an intriguing array of marquee and boutique destinations across Europe and the Americas, will be revealed this spring before going on sale in the summer.
Del Rio added, "Allura's inaugural journeys are designed to appeal to all global travelers, whether they revel in the joy that comes with reconnecting with favorite destinations or are excited to discover new places and sights for the very first time."
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Brothers Named Co-captains of Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Ascent
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Who says it has to be lonely at the top?
In an industry first, Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo announced today that Greek brothers Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis have been named co-captains of Celebrity AscentSM, the company’s fourth ship in its industry-transforming Edge Series, debuting winter 2023.
The accomplished maritime brothers will usher in a new era for the cruise line, taking the helm of the brand’s newest resort at sea, which has been brought to life by a team of modern lifestyle icons including multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus and Michelin starred chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud.
 “Captain Dimitrios and Captain Tasos are our star-powered siblings, a maritime dream team. They have given so much to the Celebrity family over the years that we are like a second family,” said Lutoff-Perlo. “Seeing their emotional reaction to this appointment and understanding what it means to share this pinnacle of their career together was something I didn’t expect and will never forget.
This ship represents a monumental milestone for our brand, taking our innovative outward-facing design further than ever, and creating a whole new class of relaxed luxury resorts at sea. I am so proud to leave her in the hands of these expert mariners.”
Captain Dimitrios has dedicated his entire maritime career, spanning more than three decades, to Celebrity Cruises, having started as an Apprentice Officer onboard Celebrity’s very first vessel, the Horizon, in 1990. Today, he reaches the very pinnacle of the industry, being named take-out captain of this trailblazing ship. Born in Piraeus, port of Athens, Greece, Captain Dimitrios graduated from the Merchant Maritime Academy of Syros-Athens at the top of his class, and has held his Master’s license since 2001. He has sailed aboard every different class of ship in Celebrity’s fleet, and was also part of the start up teams for Celebrity Millennium, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Apex, the latter of which he was also the take out Captain.
Captain Tasos grew up watching his older brother Dimitrios making a career on cruise ships, and realized he wanted to follow in his footsteps. After also graduating from the Merchant Marine College, he joined Celebrity Cruises in 1998, and over his more than 20-year career with the brand, has been involved in the opening of Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Reflection. Most recently, he has served as captain of Celebrity Edge, the very first of Celebrity’s award-winning Edge Series, which launched in 2018.
The brothers will alternate their time on Celebrity Ascent in a three-months on-and-off rotation.
“Today is a momentous day,” said Captain Dimitrios Katetzis. “I am proud that after a more than 30- year career working exclusively with Celebrity Cruises, I can play a part in their history by captaining this fourth in the series - yet one of a kind - Edge Series ship. Nearly 35 years after Celebrity Cruises was founded in Greece, they will have not one, but two Greek captains taking the helm of their newest vessel in 2023 and I am honored for my brother and I to take this role, together. I am so proud for my family and proud of my brother. We look forward to welcoming everyone on board Celebrity Ascent this winter.”
“Receiving this distinction with my brother and as part of the Celebrity Cruises family is an incredible honor for me and an emotional one, too,” said Captain Tasos Kafetzis. Together, my brother and I share a love of the ocean, and a love for this company and our guests. To share a special moment together like this is something I could have only dreamed of. I can’t wait to sail away on this incredible ship with our guests onboard and my brother in my heart.”
Aboard Celebrity Ascent, travelers will enjoy signature experiences found exclusively onboard a Celebrity Cruises Edge Series ship, including: outward-facing Resort Deck with cabanas; infinity-edge plunge pools and two-story Martini-shaped hot tubs and an elevated running track; Infinite Veranda staterooms that transform into open-air verandas with the touch of a button; legendary two-story Edge Villa staterooms with direct access to the exclusive suite-only The Retreat Sun Deck; the iconic Magic Carpet - the world's first cantilevered bar that sits on the edge of the cruise ship 13 stories above sea level; a sprawling Nate Berkus-designed Sunset Bar and more than 30 food and beverage options, including the high-tech, fully-immersive Le Petit Chef Dinner Experience (currently growing in NYC and LA but only available at sea on Celebrity Cruises) and the Eden Restaurant which will continue to offer its three-story floor-to-ceiling windows, inventive, mixology-focused cocktails, an action-packed open kitchen, and unforgettable globally-inspired dishes from around the world.
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Viking Announces Additional Seine River Ship for 2025
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Viking today announced it will welcome a new Viking Longship, purpose-built for the Seine River, to its fleet in 2025. Sailing the company's popular eight-day Paris and the Heart of Normandy itinerary, the new sister ship will join four Viking Longships that were officially named in 2022, the Viking Fjorgyn, the Viking Kari, the Viking Radgrid and the Viking Skaga. All five ships are designed specifically to navigate the Seine River and bring guests to the heart of Paris, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower.
 "France continues to be among the most popular destinations for our guests, and we are pleased to expand our fleet on the Seine River to meet that demand," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "With our exclusive docking location at Port de Grenelle, even more guests will soon be able to explore the 'City of Light' in the Viking way."
Hosting 168 guests in 84 staterooms, the Viking Longships on the Seine River feature an Aquavit Terrace and a wide variety of stateroom choices, as well as Viking's signature Scandinavian design aesthetic. The vessels feature a hybrid propulsion system with batteries and are also equipped for shore power to reduce reliance on fuel while in port. Onboard solar panels further contribute to the ships' energy efficiency.
Sailing roundtrip from Paris, guests on Viking's Paris & the Heart of Normandy itinerary explore Giverny and visit the beautiful gardens and charming farmhouse where Claude Monet lived and worked; trace the footsteps of Joan of Arc in Rouen; walk hallowed ground at Normandy's American Military Cemetery and World War II beaches; and savor the cuisine of Normandy. This eight-day voyage along the Seine River celebrates history, art, food and customs in the country's most dazzling urban and pastoral settings.
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Holland America Announces Casino Expansion On Five Ships
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Holland America Line is expanding the casino space aboard its Pinnacle and Signature Class ships to include more than 140 of the newest and most popular slot and video poker machines in the gaming industry.
 The increased casino space on Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam adds more traditional slots, progressive jackpots and video poker. With the expansion, Holland America casinos also are featuring new on-demand slot tournaments, increasing gameplay for guests who love to gamble.
“Casino play is a key part of their Holland America Line cruise vacation for many of our guests, and we were able to take advantage of some extra space on our Pinnacle Class ships to add more gaming machines,” said Daniel Materassi, senior vice president, Guest Commerce and Performance Analytics, Holland America Line. “The slots we’ve added are some of the newest in the industry, bringing exciting gameplay to our guests alongside the popular classic machines.”
In addition to the casino expansion, a separate non-smoking area in the casino on Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam have been added.
Holland America Line casinos fleetwide feature exciting slots machines, video poker, and roulette, craps and poker tables. A new casino system allows, guests to enjoy cashless wagering on slots, and have quick access to more information about their play, including seeing points earned and the ability to easily redeem any promotions or offers. The new system also permits guests to take part in slot tournaments, prize drawings and floor-wide bonus events. Guests receive additional rewards based on casino play, including future cruise offers and discounts and beverages while playing.
The following are the latest closing prices for selected cruise line stocks.
| Company |
Today's Closing
Price |
Change
(since last week) |
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Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) |
10.64 |
- 0.75% |
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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL) |
63.01 |
- 0.02% |
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Norwegian Cruise Line (Nasdq: NCLH)<14.8013.05 |
14.84 |
- 15.73% |
Cruise News Trivia Question:
For safety and speed reasons, the SS United States, once the fastest ship afloat, was constructed almost entirely of aluminium and steel. In fact, it was said that there were only two items made of wood on board the entire ship. What were those two items?
Answer - Will be published in next week's column along with the name of the first person to submit the correct answer. Send your answer to us using this form
Last Week's Question
In May of 1972, on voyage number 84, Cunard's QE2 picked up four unexpected passengers during a trans-Atlantic crossing. Who were they, and how did they end up onboard QE2?
Answer - the piano is on board the QE2 in the Chart Room.
courtesy of Nancy Bleau
Cruise News - January 23, 2023
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Oceania Cruises Reveals Exotic Explorations in Asia
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Oceania Cruises announced this week that the newly re-inspired Riviera will sail in Asia for the first time due to unprecedented guest demand this 2023-2024 season. The 1,238-guest ship will offer travelers the most stylish way to explore some of the world's most breathtaking locales across Asia, putting cultural immersion and culinary excellence at the heart of the travel experience.
Better than new, Riviera will stun in Asia by charting her inaugural season in the region, sailing through Arabia, India, Myanmar, Vietnam, China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines. Her new season brings 25 unique voyages ranging from 10 to 82 days. Additionally, Regatta and Nautica will greatly expand the line's offerings in the exotic South Pacific, with more opportunities to explore sought-after destinations like New Zealand, Australia and French Polynesia than ever before.
 The new sailings have nearly doubled the seasonal availability with 121 itineraries available for bookings across Riviera, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, cementing Oceania Cruises' position as the leading destination- and culinary-focused cruise line sailing in Asia.
The announcement of Riviera comes after an unprecedented year in luxury cruising with sales exceeding expectations, breaking numerous records.
"Riviera's re-inspiration has brought our luxurious product to new heights and the expansion of our Exotics 2023-2024 season means even more of our guests have the opportunity to explore one of the most intriguing corners of the globe," said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises.
"The decision to move Riviera to Asia was easy; demand for our Exotics collection is very strong with our well-traveled guests longing to visit remote, wondrous destinations for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Having Riviera sail this corner of the world, showcasing her new stem-to-stern, better-than-new interiors, is the most stylish, luxurious and relaxing way to explore multiple fascinating cultures while enjoying The Finest Cuisine at Sea on one voyage."
Riviera's Asia cruises bring imaginative cultural encounters, ancient treasures and so much more. From the Great Wall and Bangkok's Grand Palace to the ethereal seascape of Ha Long Bay and Kyoto's temples and gardens, the sights and landscapes of Asia fill with wonder. The futuristic neon-lit buzzing streets of Hong Kong and Tokyo beguile, along with sacred pagodas and temples, highlighting the Far East's intriguing blend of the ancient and modern.
Guests will also have the chance to explore once-forbidden corners of Asia such as Yangon and more off-the-beaten-path locations like the remote island of Ishigaki in Japan and Hue, a former Imperial city situated on Vietnam's Perfume River. These captivating voyages immerse guests in the best of the iconic attractions of this vast continent but also leave room for the discovery of the unexpected.
Riviera, Re-inspired
Riviera has had a sweeping rejuvenation with all staterooms and suites debuting reimagined, lavish residential comfort with custom furnishings, wood finishes and designer accents radiating Oceania Cruises' signature essence of elegance. Some notable highlights of the reimagined vessel include:
• Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms and Veranda Staterooms are the largest standard staterooms afloat at 291 square feet
• All staterooms bring a chic, warm and comforting sense of home with sleek restyled bathrooms and novel furnishings
• All stateroom bathrooms feature illustrious Italian marble, bespoke fabrics in harmonious tones evocative of painted deserts and tranquil skies, and each shimmer with the modernity of a Milanese townhouse
• Riviera's public spaces have all been elevated with plush new carpets and leather-covered armchairs
• All the convivial lounges, tony bars and decadent dining venues have been elegantly restyled, elevating social and epicurean experiences while maintaining the home-away-from-home ambiance
• The Grand Dining Room reflects a renewed sense of grandeur that radiates from the glistening chandelier, plush carpets and butter-soft leather armchairs
• Dining alfresco has been completely revamped with a delightful new trattoria, featuring an array of wood-fired pizzas, succulently grilled Italian specialties, tantalizing salads and indulgent desserts every evening
Incredible Itineraries
Riviera will sail 25 voyages, ranging from 10 to 82 days, offering a raft of destination-rich experiences in ports such as Cochin, India; Yangon, Myanmar; Busan, South Korea; and Phuket and Bangkok in Thailand.
For the first time in Oceania Cruises' history, Regatta and Nautica boast impressive itineraries across the South Pacific and French Polynesia, with more than 20 voyages highlighting some of the most sought-after ports in the region, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Rangiroa and Raiatea. These South Pacific sailings offer a selection of captivating sojourns for travelers, with voyages ranging from 10 to 41 days, including a return to Australia and New Zealand for Regatta; and Nautica sailing through Arabia, India and Southeast Asia.
Del Rio commented: "Thanks to these spectacular itineraries, our guests can discover some of the most beautiful and remote destinations in the world, such as little-known islands in Polynesia, in the most luxurious and immersive way possible – by sea. They can also enjoy world-famous city sights in Toyko, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok, to name a few. The breadth of travel experiences on offer across the voyages of our beautifully appointed, elegant small ships is simply unparalleled."
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Holland America Line's 2024 Canada and New England Season Features Itineraries Up to 24 Days
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Holland America Line's 2024 Canada and New England season is set to feature 29 sailings that range from weeklong getaways to longer, more in-depth journeys. The close-to-home cruises that depart or end in Boston, Massachusetts are idyllic for family getaways and guests looking to explore North America's Atlantic Coast. One extended roundtrip-Boston itinerary also stretches up to the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and Greenland.
 "Our expanded season allows travelers to explore... from spring through autumn, including the popular fall foliage"
From April through October, Volendam and Zuiderdam offer a series of seven-day "Canada & New England Discovery" departures with ports that showcase the region's delicious seafood, deep maritime history, quintessential charm and natural beauty. Ten- and 11-day cruises on Volendam add Newfoundland, while a 24-day expedition adds Greenland and a circumnavigation of Iceland.
"A Canada and New England cruise has it all for travelers looking to stay closer to home but experience a taste of Europe, beautiful scenery, amazing food, natural beauty and incredible history," said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line's chief commercial officer. "Our expanded season allows travelers to explore the region from spring through autumn, including the popular fall foliage, and by offering longer cruises we can extend up to Greenland and Iceland for a truly unique vacation."
Highlights of the 2024 Season:
• A 24-day cruise departing July 27 on Volendam sails roundtrip from Boston and circumnavigates Iceland, enhancing Holland America Line's homeport initiative that allows guests to see the world from their doorstep, with just a short flight or drive to the port. The cruise makes six calls around Iceland, with 10 additional visits in Greenland, Maine and Canada's Nova Scotia, Labrador and Newfoundland.
• Volendam will cruise between Boston and Montréal, Québec, Canada in both the summer and fall on a series of seven-day "Canada & New England Discovery" itineraries with convenient weekend departures. Ports include Bar Harbor, Maine, and the Canadian destinations of Québec City, Québec; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia. (The Sept. 28 departure exchanges Bar Harbor for Rockland, Maine.)
• Zuiderdam will sail seven-day "Canada & New England Discovery" itineraries between Boston and Québec City, with weekend departures and overnight calls at Quebec City at the beginning or end of the cruise. Ports include Bar Harbor, Charlottetown, Sydney and Halifax. (The Sept. 21 departure exchanges Bar Harbor for Rockland and doesn't include a Quebec overnight.)
• One seven-day "Historic Coasts" cruise roundtrip from Boston aboard Volendam departs July 20 and calls at Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; and Halifax and Sydney.
• Volendam offers longer "Newfoundland & New England Discovery" cruises that sail between Boston and Montreal. Ports on the 10-day cruise includes Quebec City, Baie-Comeau and Havre-Saint-Pierre, Québec; Corner Brook, St. Anthony and St. John's in Newfoundland; Halifax and Portland. The 11-day departure calls at Portland, Saint John, Corner Brook, Charlottetown and Quebec's Saguenay.
• Both Volendam and Zuiderdam will cruise the region in the fall so more guests can view the impressive display of the changing foliage. Itineraries feature scenic cruising through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Saguenay Fjord.
Holland America Line's perfectly sized ships are small enough to enable cruising the scenic St. Lawrence River, with calls at Montréal and Québec City on nearly every itinerary and large enough to host multiple spaces for live music, entertainment productions and specialty dining.
Volendam offers 13- and 14-day repositioning cruises along the Atlantic Coast between Montréal and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in April and October. Both cruises include an overnight at Quebec City. Zuiderdam's 11-day Atlantic Coast cruise from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale in October adds Charleston, South Carolina.
Exclusive shore excursions in partnership with FOOD & WINE magazine highlight the tastes of the region. On Canada and New England cruises, guests can indulge in authentic poutine and maple syrup–infused treats or farm-to-fork cuisine in Quebec City; explore the best of Nova Scotia's culinary scene along Halifax's iconic waterfront boardwalk; and sample Prince Edward Island's freshly-shucked oysters, lobster sliders and home-grown mussels.
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Cunard to Offer Legendary Rocky Mountaineer Train Tours for Guests Visiting Alaska This Summer
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Cunard announced this week that it is offering guests the opportunity to experience the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer train when they sail through Alaska on Queen Elizabeth this summer.
Cunard and Rocky Mountaineer offer guests the chance to enjoy the spectacular Alaska landscape both by land and by sea.
 Guests will be able to extend their Alaska voyage with either a four-night pre-voyage train experience o
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